Grade

Definition

Grade is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a level of quality, rank, or importance, such as a letter grade in academics or a classification in a hierarchical system. As a verb, it means to assess or classify according to quality, performance, or rank.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪd/
• Respelling: GRAYD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪd/
• Respelling: GRAYD

Etymology

The word "grade" originates from Latin "gradus," meaning "step" or "degree," which is derived from "gradi," meaning "to step or walk." It entered Middle French as "grade" and later Middle English, retaining its meanings related to levels or rankings.

Derivatives

• Grader (noun)
• Gradeable (adjective)
• Grading (noun/verb)
• Regrade (verb)
• Ungraded (adjective)

Synonyms

• Level
• Rank
• Score

Antonyms

• Disorder
• Chaos
• None

Usage

The word "grade" is used in academic settings to describe marks or performance levels, such as "She received an A grade in mathematics." It is also employed in construction or geography to describe slopes, as in "The road has a steep grade." As a verb, it refers to the act of assessing or ranking, as in "The teacher is grading the exams."

Related Terms

• Rank: A position in a hierarchical system.
• Classification: The process of arranging items into categories.
• Score: A numerical or letter-based assessment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A level of quality or rank: Refers to the categorization of items or individuals based on criteria.
  • Example: "The product was of high grade."
• A mark or score in academic performance: Indicates the evaluation of a student’s work.
  • Example: "He earned an excellent grade on his essay."
• A slope or incline in construction or geography: Describes the angle or steepness of a surface.
  • Example: "The steep grade made cycling challenging."

Verb

• To classify or assess according to quality or rank: Refers to evaluating or assigning a grade.
  • Example: "She is grading the assignments."
• To level or adjust a surface: Describes preparing land or roads to a specific slope.
  • Example: "The workers graded the road to improve drainage."