Gra*da"tion (?), n., [L. gradatio: cf. F. gradation. See Grade.]
1.
The act of progressing by regular steps or orderly arrangement; the state of being graded or arranged in ranks; as, the gradation of castes.
2.
The act or process of bringing to a certain grade.
3.
Any degree or relative position in an order or series.
The several gradations of the intelligent universe.
I. Taylor.
4. Fine Arts
A gradual passing from one tint to another or from a darker to a lighter shade, as in painting or drawing.
6. Mus.
A diatonic ascending or descending succession of chords.
© Webster 1913.
Gra*da"tion, v. t.
To form with gradations.
[R.]
© Webster 1913.