gradual
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: graduals
Sense 1
Proceeding or advancing by small, slow, regular steps or degrees
Adjective
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
An antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the Mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
A service book containing the musical portions of the Mass.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “gradual” mean?
Proceeding or advancing by small, slow, regular steps or degrees
Is “gradual” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.