adverb
gradually
Slowly, through small changes over time.
The room gradually grows warmer as sunlight streams through the windows.
Etymology
Gradual belongs to the word family of steps or degrees. The adverb describes change as proceeding by small successive steps instead of one sudden transition.
More examples
- She gradually becomes more confident behind the wheel.
- Add the flour gradually, stirring after each spoonful.
- The pain gradually faded over the next few days.
Forms
gradually · more gradually · most gradually
gradual adjective — Happening slowly through small changes.
Similar words
- slowly
- Emphasizes low speed, not necessarily a series of small changes.
- steadily
- Emphasizes a consistent rate or progress without sudden interruptions.
- progressively
- Emphasizes successive stages, often moving toward a particular result.