Gra"di*ent (?), 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 birsds.
© Webster 1913.
Gra"di*ent, 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.
© Webster 1913.