gradual

Gradual; a.

Etymology: [Cf; F. graduel. See Grade, and cf. Gradual, n.]

Proceeding by steps or degrees; advancing, step by step, as in ascent or descent or from one state to another; regularly progressive; slow; as, a gradual increase of knowledge; a gradual decline. Creatures animate with gradual life Of growth, sense, reason, all summed up in man. Milton.

1 other Webster entry under this spelling

Gradual, n.

1. (R. C. Ch.) (a) An antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the Mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps. (b) A service book containing the musical portions of the Mass.

2. A series of steps. [Obs.] Dryden.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for gradual; he lists it under slow.

Where he writes about it:

Gradual (L. gradus, a step) signifies advancing by steps, and refers to slow but regular and sure progression. — from slow

Synonyms

slow dawdling delaying deliberate dilatory drowsy dull inactive inert lingering moderate procrastinating slack sluggish tardy

Antonyms

nimble steep

etymology Webster’s online