| 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 |