n. (usu. in pl.) 1 a stage of transition or advance. 2 a a certain degree in rank, intensity, merit, divergence, etc. b such a degree; an arrangement in such degrees. 3 (of paint etc.) the gradual passing from one shade, tone, etc., to another. 4 Philol. ablaut. gradational adj. gradationally adv.
[ L gradatio f. gradus step ]