Definition of gradientnext
as in slope
the degree to which something rises up from a position level with the horizon the path goes up at a pretty steep gradient before leveling off

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of gradient These thermal gradients generate stresses that may crack or spall – chip or flake off – the outer surface, but the heat often does not penetrate deeply enough to compromise the structural core. Giorgia Giardina, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2026 Under looks like a shiny silver 911, but a closer inspection reveals dual ChromaFlair color gradient paintwork that actually transitions between Southern Cross Blue above the shoulderline and Terra Australis Red. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 7 Aug. 2026 There were three smaller climbs heading to Ventoux, which was ranked as a Hors Catégorie ascent — the hardest category — and had a gradient of nearly 9%. ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026 The first explanation the researchers came up with was that the flies were climbing a rising gradient of odor toward the source. Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gradient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradient
Noun
  • Riders go down a steep slope on large inner tubes before hitting a small bump to slow down and finally stopping on a turf patch.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Sabrina Blanchard and Luca Matteucci/AFP/Getty The Hindu Kush Himalayan region is warming rapidly, driving major changes in glaciers, snow cover, permafrost and mountain slopes, according to climate scientists.
    CBS News, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Collectively, that inclination could lead to bills soaring ever higher.
    Audrey McGlinchy, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026
  • But analysts at the time cautioned that Beijing had neither the capability nor inclination to pressure either side into negotiating.
    Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The imposing gate and incline signal that privacy is one of the adults-only resort’s strongest assets, attracting high-profile guests like Katy Perry and Sir Paul McCartney.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The Pro version utilizes dual 250-W all-wheel-drive hubs to generate the torque to climb an impressive 15% hill incline.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Gradient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradient. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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