The Latin root word *grad* and its variant *gress* both mean "step." These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including [*grad*]uate, [*grad*]ual, ag[*gress*]ive, and e[*gress*]. When you [*grad*]uate, you are ready for the next "step" in your education; likewise, when you make a great deal of pro[*gress*], you have "stepped" forward.