gradual Hear it!

gradual definition

gradu·al (gra′jo̵̅o̅ əl, -jə wəl)

adjective

taking place by almost imperceptible steps or degrees; developing little by little, not sharply or suddenly

Etymology: ML gradualis < L gradus: see grade

noun

  1. a set of usually Scriptural verses following the Epistle at Mass
  2. an official book containing the words and musical notation for the parts of the Mass sung by others other than the celebrant
    in full Graduale Romanum Gra′·du·a′le Ro·ma′·num (grä′do̵̅o̅ ä′lā rō mä′no̵om)

Etymology: ML graduale, book of hymns orig. sung on steps of a pulpit < L gradus

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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