Defn: To form with gradations. [R.]

GRADATIONAL
Gra*da"tion*al, a.

Defn: By regular steps or gradations; of or pertaining to gradation.

GRADATORY
Grad"a*to*ry, a. Etym: [See Grade.]

1. Proceeding step by step, or by gradations; gradual. Could we have seen [Macbeth's] crimes darkening on their progress . . . could this gradatory apostasy have been shown us. A. Seward.

2. (Zoöl.)

Defn: Suitable for walking; — said of the limbs of an animal when adapted for walking on land.

GRADATORY
Grad"a*to*ry, n. Etym: [Cf. LL. gradatarium.] (Arch.)

Defn: A series of steps from a cloister into a church.

GRADE Grade, n. Etym: [F. grade, L. gradus step, pace, grade, from gradi to step, go. Cf. Congress, Degree, Gradus.]