grad·u·a·tion 
(grăj′-āshən)
(grăj′-āshən)n.
1.
a. Conferral or receipt of an academic degree or diploma marking completion of studies: the rate of graduation of student athletes.
b. A ceremony at which degrees or diplomas are conferred; a commencement.
2.
a. A division or interval, as on a graduated scale: shading with many fine graduations.
b. A mark indicating the boundary of such a division or interval.
3. An arrangement in or a division into stages or degrees.