— gradually , adv. — gradualness , n.
/graj"ooh euhl/ , adj.
1. taking place, changing, moving, etc., by small degrees or little by little: gradual improvement in health.
2. rising or descending at an even, moderate inclination: a gradual slope.
n.
3. Eccles. ( often cap. )
a. an antiphon sung between the Epistle and the Gospel in the Eucharistic service.
b. a book containing the words and music of the parts of the liturgy that are sung by the choir.
[ 1375-1425; late ME gradualis pertaining to steps, graduale the part of the service sung as the choir stood on the altar steps, equiv. to L gradu ( s ) step, GRADE + -alis -AL 1 ]
Syn. 1. See slow. 2. gentle.
Ant. 1. sudden. 2. precipitous.