gradatory Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite taking place by degrees
    graduated; gradational.

WordNet

Grad"a*to*ry adjective
Etymology
See Grade.
Definitions
  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.) Suitable for walking; -- said of the limbs of an animal when adapted for walking on land.
Grad"a*to*ry noun
Etymology
Cf. LL. gradatarium.
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) A series of steps from a cloister into a church.

Webster 1913