■ noun
1》 the amount, level, or extent to which something happens or is present.
2》 a unit of measurement of angles, equivalent to one ninetieth of a right angle. (Symbol: ° )
3》 a unit in any of various scales of temperature, intensity, or hardness. (Symbol: ° )
4》 a stage in a scale or series, in particular:
↘each of a set of grades (usually three) used to classify burns according to their severity.
↘a legal grade of crime, especially murder.
↘a step in direct genealogical descent: second-~ relatives.
↘ Music a position in a musical scale, counting upwards from the tonic or fundamental note.
5》 an academic rank conferred by a college or university after examination or after completion of a course, or conferred as an honour.
6》 archaic social or official rank.
Phrases
by ~s a little at a time; gradually.
to a ~ to some extent.
↘ dated to a considerable extent.
Origin
ME: from OFr., based on L. de- 'down' + gradus 'grade'.