\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.
                                               --I. Taylor.
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.]