gradation

Definitions

• A sequence of gradual, successive stages; a systematic progression.
• A passing by small degrees from one tone or shade, as of color, to another.
• The act of gradating or arranging in grades.
• Any degree or relative position in an order or series.
• (countable) A calibration marking.
• (music) A gradual change within one parameter, or an overlapping of two blocks of sound.
• (music) A diatonic succession of chords.
• (phonetics) Apophony.