Gra‐da″tion (?), n., [L. gradatio: cf. F. gradation. See Grade.] 1. The act of progressing by regular steps or orderly arrangement; the state of being graded or arranged in ranks; as, the gradation of castes.
2. The act or process of bringing to a certain grade.
3. Any degree or relative position in an order or series.
The several gradations of the intelligent universe. I. Taylor.
4. (Fine Arts) A gradual passing from one tint to another or from a darker to a lighter shade, as in painting or drawing.
6. (Mus.) A diatonic ascending or descending succession of chords.