gradual

Definition

Proceeding or advancing by small, slow, regular steps or degrees

Etymology

From Medieval Latin graduālis, from Latin gradus (“step”), from Proto-Indo-European *gʰradʰ-, *gʰredʰ- (“to walk, go”). Cognate with Gothic 𐌲𐍂𐌹𐌸𐍃 (griþs, “step, grade”), Bavarian Gritt (“step, stride”).

Example Sentences

• "a gradual increase of knowledge; a gradual decline"
• "Creatures animate with gradual life / Of growth, sense, reason, all summed up in man."

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