C1nounsciencenature
US/ˈɡreɪ.di.ənt/
UK/ˈɡreɪ.di.ənt/
the steepness of a slope, or a gradual change in a quantity from one point to another
In context
The road has a steep gradient, so most cyclists get off and walk.
A temperature gradient in the ocean drives many of its currents.
The color changes along a smooth gradient from deep blue to pale green.
Words that go with gradient
adjective + noun
- steep gradientThe railway climbs at a steep gradient.
- gentle gradientA gentle gradient makes the path easy for children.
noun + noun
- temperature gradientThe temperature gradient between day and night is large.
- color gradientThe poster uses a soft color gradient as its background.
- pressure gradientWind blows along the pressure gradient.
noun + preposition
- gradient ofThe gradient of the hill is one in ten.