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.

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.

Gra*da"tion, v. t. To form with gradations. [R.]

• (music) a gradual change within one parameter, or an overlapping of two blocks of sound.