gradation /ɡɹəˈdeɪʃən/noun 8verb 1forms 3 noun8 •A sequence of gradual, successive stages; a systematic progression. •A passing by small degrees from one tone or shade, as of color, to another.A decade ago, the British department-store chain John Lewis built itself a long warehouse, painted in gradations of sky blue. — 2019 •A gradual change within one parameter, or an overlapping of two blocks of sound. •A diatonic succession of chords. •Any degree or relative position in an order or series.the several gradations of the intelligent universe — 1832 •A calibration marking. •The act of gradating or arranging in grades. •Ablaut. verb1 •To form with gradations. formsgradationed · gradationing · gradations