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(), a.[L. gradiens, p. pr. of gradi to step, to go. See Grade.] 1. Moving by steps; walking; as, gradient automata. Wilkins. 2. Rising or descending by regular degrees of inclination; as, the gradient line of a railroad. 3. Adapted for walking, as the feet of certain birds. Gra"dient n. 1. The rate of regular or graded ascent or descent in a road; grade. 2. A part of a road which slopes upward or downward; a portion of a way not level; a grade. 3. The rate of increase or decrease of a variable magnitude, or the curve which represents it; as, a thermometric gradient. Gradient post, a post or stake indicating by its height or by marks on it the grade of a railroad, highway, or embankment, etc., at that spot. スポンサード リンク
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