释义 |
grad·u·al I. \ˈgraj(ə)wəl, -jəl\ noun also gradu·ale \ˌgrädəˈwä(ˌ)lā; ˈgraj(ə)wəl, -jəl\ (-s) Usage: often capitalized Etymology: Medieval Latin graduale, alteration of Late Latin gradale, from Latin gradus step + -ale (neuter of -alis -al); from its being sung on the steps of the altar — more at grade 1. : an antiphon or responsory sung or recited with the alleluia or the tract between the Epistle and Gospel originally from the steps of the altar in a Christian church 2. : a service book containing the musical portion of the mass sung by the choir II. adjective Etymology: Medieval Latin gradualis, from Latin gradus step, degree + -alis -al 1. : arranged in grades or degrees; also : admitting of such an arrangement 2. a. : proceeding by steps or degrees : advancing step by step (as in ascent or from one state to another) b. (1) : moving, changing, or developing by fine, slight, or often imperceptible gradations or modulations < a gradual change for the better in the patient's condition > (2) of an incline : not steep or abrupt < a gradual slope > < a gradual drop down to the town > III. adverb chiefly dialect : gradually |