gradate

[ grey-deyt ]

verb (used without object)

, gra·dat·ed, gra·dat·ing.

1. to pass by gradual or imperceptible degrees, as one color into another.

verb (used with object)

, gra·dat·ed, gra·dat·ing.

1. to cause to gradate.
2. to arrange in grades.

gradate

/ ɡrəˈdeɪt /

verb

1. to change or cause to change imperceptibly, as from one colour, tone, or degree to another
2. tr to arrange in grades or ranks

Other Words From

• re·gradate verb regradated regradating
• un·gradat·ed adjective
• un·gradat·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gradate¹

First recorded in 1745–55; back formation from gradation

Example Sentences

Next, he had to meticulously coat each strand with several gradated shades of gray spray paint to create an image that would only be clearly visible when viewed at a distance.

From Los Angeles Times

Experts say youth unemployment is likely to worsen as a record 11.6 million fresh gradates enter the market.

From BBC

The massive yet delicate piece, a version of which was shown at the American University Museum in 2019, symbolically depicts invasive species of mussels in subtly gradated shades of blue and green.

From Washington Post

The standout is “Lifting Up the Sunny World,” a field of gradated oranges inside craggy green and blue borders.

From Washington Post

The subtly gradated tones of pieces such as “Expanding Galaxy” do as much as the curving and sometimes teetering forms to convey a sense of flux and volatility.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• adjust
• assess
• average
• calibrate
• check
• compute
• determine
• estimate
• evaluate
• fit
• gauge
• limit
• mark
• peg
• quantify
• rank
• regulate
• survey
• weigh