Gradual definitions

grăj'o͝o-əl
Occurring or developing slowly or by small increments.

Gradual erosion; a gradual slope.

adjective
31
1
The liturgical book containing the chants for the Mass.
noun
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0
Taking place by almost imperceptible steps or degrees; developing little by little, not sharply or suddenly.
adjective
27
1
A biblical text sung between the Epistle and the Gospel of the Mass.
noun
24
0
A set of usually Scriptural verses following the Epistle at Mass.
noun
24
0
An official book containing the words and musical notation for the parts of the Mass sung by participants other than the celebrant.
noun
21
0
The definition of gradual is something that changes or progresses slowly or over time.

When a mountain loses incline over a very large space so there are no steep drop-offs, this is an example of a gradual decline.

When your health very slowly starts to get better over time, this is an example of gradual improvement.

adjective
6
0
Proceeding by steps or small degrees; advancing step by step, as in ascent or descent or from one state to another; regularly progressive; slow.

A gradual increase of knowledge; a gradual decline.

adjective
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(Roman Catholic Church) An antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the Mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps.
noun
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(Roman Catholic Church) A service book containing the musical portions of the Mass.
noun
0
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Origin of gradual

Middle English having steps from Medieval Latin graduālis from Latin gradus step grade N., Middle English from Medieval Latin graduāle the part of the service sung by the choir from the altar steps, gradual from neuter sing. of graduālis