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gradient
Gradient (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does gradient mean?
The slope or incline of a landform, such as a hill or mountain.
"The bike trail had a steady gradient, making it an easy ride."
Detailed Meaning of Gradient
It is a measure of the rate of change of elevation over a given horizontal distance, expressed as a percentage or an angle. The gradient of a landform plays a crucial role in various fields such as geology, geography, and engineering, as it affects the stability, erosion, and drainage patterns of the terrain. The steeper the gradient, the faster water and soil move downhill, causing increased erosion and landslides. Conversely, a gentler gradient can promote the accumulation of soil and vegetation, which can benefit agricultural and forestry activities.
A gradient is also a measure of the rate of change of a variable with respect to another variable. In mathematics, it can refer to the slope of a line or the rate of change of a function. In physics, a gradient can refer to the rate of change of a quantity such as temperature or pressure. In the field of engineering, gradient is used in the context of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and electrostatics. Gradients are also used in the field of finance, to calculate the rate of return on an investment or to identify trends in the stock market.
Example Sentences for Gradient
1. The gradient of the hill was too steep for safe hiking.
2. The ski slope had a challenging gradient for advanced skiers.
3. The gradient of the river determined its flow rate.
4. The landscape architect designed the garden with varying gradients.
5. The road crew had to adjust the gradient of the new highway to meet safety standards.
6. The geologist measured the gradient of the fault line.
Origin and Etymology of Gradient
The noun 'gradient' has its origins in Latin and can be traced back to the Latin word 'gradus,' which means 'step' or 'degree.' In the context of landforms, the concept of a slope or incline was often described in terms of degrees or steps. This Latin root, 'gradus,' gave rise to the Late Latin term 'gradientem,' which meant 'slope' or 'rising' and was used in discussions about topography and land features. Over time, 'gradientem' evolved into the Old French word 'gradient,' which maintained the sense of describing the slope or incline of landforms. As the word passed into Middle English, it became 'gradient,' and it continues to be used today to refer to the degree of incline or slope, particularly in relation to hills, mountains, or other land surfaces. Thus, the etymology of 'gradient' reflects its historical association with the idea of measuring and describing the degree of inclination in natural landscapes.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the noun gradient:
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More Usage Examples of Gradient
1. The architect used a gradient effect on the building's exterior to create visual interest.
2. The erosion control project involved stabilizing the gradient of the hillside.
3. The civil engineer calculated the gradient of the drainage system.
4. The surveyor used a laser level to measure the gradient of the construction site.
5. The athlete trained on a treadmill with an adjustable gradient to simulate hill running.
6. The hiker struggled to ascend the steep gradient of the mountain.
7. The road twisted and turned, following the natural gradient.
8. The ski slope's gradient made it a challenging run.
9. The river flowed gently down the gradual gradient.
10. The architect designed the building to match the city's gradient.
11. The geologist measured the gradient of the canyon walls.
12. The cyclist shifted gears to tackle the uphill gradient.
13. The farmer planted crops on the fertile gradient of the hill.
14. The topography map displayed the land's gradient in detail.
15. The skier descended the mountain, adjusting to the changing gradient.
16. The engineer calculated the gradient for the new railway track.
17. The landscape artist captured the beauty of the rolling gradient.
18. The surveyor assessed the gradient of the construction site.
19. The river's gradient created a series of breathtaking waterfalls.
20. The avalanche occurred on a dangerously steep gradient.
21. The trail led through a forest with varying gradients.
22. The city's streets followed the natural gradient of the terrain.
23. The backpacker enjoyed the challenge of the rocky gradient.
24. The cyclist pedaled hard to conquer the uphill gradient.
25. The skater practiced balancing on different gradients of ramps.
Synonyms and Related Words for Gradient
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.
✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.
✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT