Results

Definition of piecemeal : 1. A fragment; a scrap.
2. In pieces; in parts or fragments.
3. Made up of parts or pieces; single; separate.
4. Piece by piece; by little and little in succession.

Synonyms:

by small degrees, fast, gradual, step-by-step, in small stages, in stages, gradational, stepwise, little by little, by degrees, by inches, gradually, bit-by-bit

Usage examples:

• Suppose that a phenomenon consists of parts, and that these parts are only capable of being observed separately, and as it were piecemeal. - "A System Of Logic, Ratiocinative And Inductive (Vol. 1 of 2)", John Stuart Mill.
• Nor simple was the way of death, but when Hot thirst through every vein impelled had drawn Their wretched limbs together, anon o'erflowed A watery flux, and all their bones piecemeal Sapped by corruption to itself absorbed. - "The Georgics", Virgil.
• Better to die by sudden shock, Than perish piecemeal on the rock! - "A College Girl", Mrs. George de Horne Vaizey.