gradation

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The act or process of bringing to a certain grade. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Any degree or relative position in an order or series. [ 1913 Webster ]

The several gradations of the intelligent universe. I. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Fine Arts) A gradual passing from one tint to another or from a darker to a lighter shade, as in painting or drawing. [ 1913 Webster ]

6. (Mus.) A diatonic ascending or descending succession of chords. [ 1913 Webster ]