grad·u·al
ˈgra-jə-wəl 
-jəl,
ˈgraj-wəl
1
: moving, changing, or developing by fine or often imperceptible degrees
2
: proceeding by steps or degrees
gradually
adverb
gradualness
noun
often capitalized
1
: a book containing the choral parts of the Mass
2
: a pair of verses (as from the Psalms) proper after the Epistle in the Mass
Examples of gradual in a Sentence
Adjective
We noticed a gradual change in temperature.
The hospital has made gradual improvements in health care.
Recent Examples on the Web
Maria Williams, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
This can seem helpful in areas like relationships, where gradual cues matter.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
To many fans who feel that The Office began a gradual downhill climb in the fifth season, when showrunner Greg Daniels and writer Michael Schur left to launch Parks and Rec, this episode concludes the show’s golden age.
—Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 8 Sep. 2025
The polar vortex is beginning its seasonal strengthening, signaling a gradual shift toward cooler weather.
—Brandi D. Addison, jsonline.com, 8 Sep. 2025
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Adjective
The gradual combination of these skills helps students avoid most crashes in the long term, leading to less discouragement and frustration.
—Maria Williams, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
This can seem helpful in areas like relationships, where gradual cues matter.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
To many fans who feel that The Office began a gradual downhill climb in the fifth season, when showrunner Greg Daniels and writer Michael Schur left to launch Parks and Rec, this episode concludes the show’s golden age.
—Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 8 Sep. 2025
The polar vortex is beginning its seasonal strengthening, signaling a gradual shift toward cooler weather.
—Brandi D. Addison, jsonline.com, 8 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gradual
Cite this Entry
“Gradual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gradual. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.
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