Gradient

a. [Lat. gradiens, p. pr. of gradi, to step, to go.] 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.

n. 1. The rate of ascent or descent in a road, &c.; grade.

2Sense 2. A part of a road which slopes upward or downward; a portion of a way not level; a grade.