Progressive
"Happening or developing gradually or in stages; proceeding step by step; favoring or implementing social reform or new, liberal ideas."
Morphological Anatomy
The verb progress (from Latin progredi, meaning "to step forward") is combined with the suffix -ive to create an adjective describing a tendency to move forward or develop.
Etymology Timeline
progredi
From pro- ("forward") + gradi ("to step"). Literally, "to step forward."
Progressive
The adjective progressive appeared in English to describe gradual development or movement.
Word Family & Derivatives
To move forward or develop over a period of time.
The process of developing or moving gradually towards a more advanced state.
Support for or advocacy of social reform.
In a progressive way; gradually or in stages.
Usage in Context
The word progressive is used to describe movement, development, and political ideology. In a general sense, it describes something that happens step by step, such as a progressive disease or progressive taxation.
In a political and social context, it describes ideas or policies that favor reform and progress. A progressive thinker is one who is open to new ideas and seeks to improve society. In music, progressive rock is a genre that incorporates elements of classical and jazz music to create complex and innovative sounds.
Example Sentences
- "The company has a progressive policy on employee benefits."
- "The disease is progressive and will worsen over time."
- "She is a progressive leader who is not afraid of change."