progression

noun

pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgre-shən How to pronounce progression (audio)
Synonyms of progressionnext
1
: a sequence of numbers in which each term is related to its predecessor by a uniform law
2
a
: the action or process of progressing : advance
b
: a continuous and connected series : sequence
3
a
: succession of musical tones or chords
b
: the movement of musical parts in harmony
progressional
prə-ˈgresh-nəl How to pronounce progression (audio)
-ˈgre-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Examples of progression in a Sentence

Doctors were surprised by the rapid progression of the disease. the natural progression of his musical talent
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 23-year-old pop star isn't reinventing her aesthetic or sound; instead, the 13-track album feels like an organic progression after the chart-topping Sour and Guts. Tiffany Kelly, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 The extreme exploitation that drives modern slavery accelerates chronic disease progression and blocks access to care just as effectively as geography or income. Nicole F. Roberts, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 The progression of the scene reveals Floyd’s empathy and resourcefulness. Daniel D'addario, Variety, 11 June 2026 While the day started with moderate temperatures, the progression throughout the day is going to feel pretty stark. Tony Sadiku, CBS News, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for progression

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of progression was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Progression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progression. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

progression

noun
pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgresh-ən How to pronounce progression (audio)
1
: the action of progressing or moving forward
2
: a continuous and connected series (as of acts, events, or steps)
3
: a changing from one chord to another by means of several notes or chords coming one after the other

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