GRADIENTS Synonyms: 25 Similar and Opposite Words

gradients

noun

plural of gradient

as in slopes

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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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 gradients Engineers maintained extremely gentle gradients across long distances while using tunnels, channels, and arched bridges to cross uneven terrain. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 16 Aug. 2026 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 Add a pop of color to your workout with this pair of sneakers that come in gradients of vibrant yellow, pink, purple, and more. — Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026 Why Gradients Are In As far as why gradients are the paint technique of the moment, Studholme has a bit of a theory. — Tessa Cooper, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2026 The original Östereichring was a spectacular thing, with steep gradients, long straights, and high-speed curves, surrounded by views of the Styrian mountains. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 29 June 2026 Schiavo said the Federal Railroad Administration issues national standards on train crossing gradients. — The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 25 June 2026 Inspired by the fan-favorite drink, this dreamy aura design blends soft gradients with a vibrant pop of jellyfish candy red for a look that's almost good enough to eat. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 25 June 2026 The gemstones were meticulously arranged in tonal gradients, progressing from deeper shades at the base to more luminous hues at the crest. — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 11 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradients

Noun

Forecasters warn Moke could drop up to 10 inches of rain on the Big Island and 15 in isolated areas, triggering life-threatening flooding and mudslides on steep, storm-scarred slopes.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026
Five to 10 inches of rain are expected on the Big Island, with up to 15 inches possible on the central and eastern slopes.

— Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of slopes

Noun

Cows amble in the distance along the inclines of meadows; their grazing helps control invasive plants.

— Kalpana Mohan, Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2026
Bert McCarty, a Clemson University professor of turfgrass science and management, said golfers like how top courses are so different — from incorporating the ocean in places near beaches to relying on inclines in the mountains.

— ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of inclines

Noun

Putin will eventually leave office, whether by death, illness, or—against all observable inclinations—stepping aside.

— Julian G. Waller, Foreign Affairs, 7 Aug. 2026
People with gene variants that affect these inclinations may also be at a higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes, researchers found.

— Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 28 July 2026

Definition of inclinations

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gradient

gradients

grading

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“Gradients.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradients. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of gradients

noun

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