gradually
UK: ˈɡrædʒuəli | US: ˈɡrædʒuəli
adv. in a gradual manner; by small steps or degrees over time
The word "gradually" derives from the Latin gradus (meaning "step"), which evolved into the Medieval Latin gradualis ("proceeding by steps"). The root "gradual" entered English in the late 15th century, originally describing liturgical hymns sung in steps. By the 17th century, it broadened to mean "progressing slowly," and the adverbial suffix "-ly" was added to form "gradually," emphasizing incremental progression. The morphemes reflect a literal-to-figurative shift from physical steps to abstract, measured change.
The sun gradually rose above the horizon.
She adjusted gradually to the new time zone.
The company plans to phase out the product gradually.
His health improved gradually after the treatment.
The colors of the sunset blended gradually into darkness.