progress definition

1. A moving or going forward; a proceeding onward; an advance; specifically: In actual space, as the progress of a ship, carriage, etc.

In the growth of an animal or plant; increase.

In business of any kind; as, the progress of a negotiation; the progress of art.

In knowledge; in proficiency; as, the progress of a child at school.

Toward ideal completeness or perfection in respect of quality or condition; applied to individuals, communities, or the race; as, social, moral, religious, or political progress.

2. A journey of state; a circuit; especially, one made by a sovereign through parts of his own dominions. "The king being returned from his progresse." (Evelyn)

Origin: L. Progressus, from progredi, p. P. Progressus, to go forth or forward; pro forward + gradi to step, go: cf. F. Progres. See Grade.

(01 Mar 1998)