adj
progressive
pruh-GREH-sihv
adj
1
Favoring new ideas, reform, or gradual improvement in society.
"The candidate ran on a progressive platform focused on healthcare reform."
2
Happening gradually or increasing steadily over time.
"The illness caused a progressive loss of muscle control."
noun
1
A person holding progressive or reformist political views.
"Progressives in the party pushed for the new climate policy."
How to Use Progressive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither politically reform-minded, or steadily increasing/developing.
Common pairings
progressive politics
progressive disease
progressive tax
Word Forms
more progressive comparative, more Progressive comparative, progressives plural, progressives plural, Progressives plural, most progressive superlative, most Progressive superlative
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The candidate ran on a _____ platform focused on healthcare reform.
Etymology
From Latin progredior ("to advance") via French progressif, plus the adjective suffix "-ive."