Gradation
/ˌɡreɪˈdeɪʃən/noun
A gradual change or sequence of steps, degrees, or shades.
Did you know?Gradation comes from Latin *gradus* meaning “step,” the same ancient root that gave English words tied to walking, rank, and progression—language has been mapping power as a staircase for centuries.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ghredh-
“to step, walk, or go”
Latin
Latin
gradus
“a step; a pace; a rank or degree”
Late Latin
Latin
gradationem
“a stepping; a series of steps or degrees”
Old French
Old French
gradation
“a gradual progression; a rising by degrees”
Middle English
English
gradation
“a series of steps, ranks, or degrees”
Modern English
English
gradation
“a gradual change or sequence of degrees or shades”