ETYM Cf; French graduel. Related to Grade, Gradual.
1. Of a topographical gradient; not steep or abrupt.
2. Proceeding in small stages.
ETYM Late Lat. graduale a gradual, from Latin gradus step: cf. French graduel. Related to Grade, Grail a gradual.
(Roman Catholic) An antiphon (usually from the Book of Psalms) immediately after the epistle at Mass.
Part of mass between epistle and gospel.