gradient Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a graded change in the magnitude of some physical quantity or dimension
  2. noun the property possessed by a line or surface that departs from the horizontal
    slope.
    • a five-degree gradient

WordNet

Gra"di*ent adjective
Etymology
L. gradiens, p. pr. of gradi to step, to go. See Grade.
Definitions
  1. Moving by steps; walking; as, gradient automata. Wilkins.
  2. Rising or descending by regular degrees of inclination; as, the gradient line of a railroad.
  3. Adapted for walking, as the feet of certain birsds.
Gra"di*ent noun
Definitions
  1. The rate of regular or graded ascent or descent in a road; grade.
  2. A part of a road which slopes upward or downward; a portion of a way not level; a grade.
  3. The rate of increase or decrease of a variable magnitude, or the curve which represents it; as, a thermometric gradient.

Webster 1913