< Back
gradient
Definition
A gradient is a gradual change in something. For example, the temperature might have a gradient from hot to cold, or the colour of a rainbow might have a gradient from red to violet.
Gradients can be represented by lines or curves. For example, a line graph can show the gradient of temperature over time.
Gradients are used in many different ways. For example, they can be used to map the elevation of a landscape or to show the distribution of something, such as population density.
How can the word be used?
The engineer used a gradient to control the speed of the conveyor belt.
Different forms of the word
Noun: gradient.
Adjective: gradient.
Verb: to gradient.
Synonym: slope, incline, grade.
Etymology
The word "gradient" comes from the Latin word "gradior", which means "to step" or "to climb". The word was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to a slope or incline.
Question
Why might it be useful to know what a gradient of a road is when riding your bike?