gradient

Từ điển Oxford Advanced Learner 8th

gra·di·ent [gradient gradients] BrE [ˈɡreɪdiənt] NAmE [ˈɡreɪdiənt] noun
1. (also grade especially in NAmE)the degree to which the ground slopes, especially on a road or railway
•a steep gradient
•a hill with a gradient of 1 in 4 (or 25%)
2. (technical)the rate at which temperature, pressure, etc. changes, or increases and decreases, between one region and another
See also: ↑grade

Word Origin:
mid 19th cent.: from ↑grade, on the pattern of salient.

Example Bank:
•The field was on a slight gradient.
•The road has a fairly steep gradient.
•The hill has a gradient of 1 in 4 (or 25%).
•The line here is on a steep gradient climbing towards Merstham Tunnel.