progressive

UK: /prəˈɡres.ɪv/ | US: /prəˈɡres.ɪv/

Definition
  1. adj. favoring or advocating social reform or new ideas

  2. adj. proceeding gradually or in stages

  3. n. a person advocating progressive policies

Structure
progress <forward movement>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin progressus (past participle of progredi, "to go forward"), combining pro- (forward) + gradi (to step). The suffix -ive (from Latin -ivus) forms adjectives indicating tendency or capacity. The word evolved in Middle English via Old French progressif, originally describing physical movement, later abstracted to societal or ideological advancement.

Examples
  1. The school adopted a progressive approach to education.

  2. Her views on environmental issues are highly progressive.

  3. The disease shows progressive deterioration over time.

  4. He identifies as a progressive in political debates.

  5. Progressive taxation systems aim to reduce income inequality.