A medieval liturgical book containing chants and musical pieces sung during Catholic Mass, particularly the Gradual (a type of chant).
From Medieval Latin 'gradualis' (relating to steps), derived from 'gradus' (step). The chants got their name because they were sung on the steps (gradus) of the altar.
The word 'gradual' in music comes from medieval church practice—singers would literally stand on different gradins (steps) of the altar, which is why these particular chants got their distinctive name!
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