gradation — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A sequence of gradual, successive stages; a systematic progression.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

2. A passing by small degrees from one tone or shade, as of color, to another.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Synonyms

   nuance

   Examples

   A decade ago, the British department-store chain John Lewis built itself a long warehouse, painted in gradations of sky blue.

3. The act of gradating or arranging in grades.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

4. Any degree or relative position in an order or series.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   the several gradations of the intelligent universe

   More examples (1)

   Two distinct types of lupus erythematosus are recognized: [1] chronic or discoid, which is essentially a skin lesion, and [2] severe systemic, designated as acute. Between the two types are many gradations to which the term subacute has been applied.

5. A calibration marking.

   Usage

   • Countable

6. A gradual change within one parameter, or an overlapping of two blocks of sound.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

7. A diatonic succession of chords.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

8. Ablaut.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Verb

1. To form with gradations.

   Usage

   • Transitive

   Related words

   graduation

Noun

1. relative position in a graded series

   Synonyms

   step

   Broader terms

   rank

   Examples

   always a step behind

   subtle gradations in color

   More examples (1)

   keep in step with the fashions

2. a degree of ablaut

   Synonyms

   grade

   Broader terms

   ablaut

3. the act of arranging in grades

   Synonyms

   graduation

   Broader terms

   quantification