arithmetic progression
nounUK /ˌærɪθˈmetɪk prəˈɡreʃən/
US /ˌærɪθˈmetɪk prəˈɡreʃən/
A list of numbers that go up or down by the same amount each time.
The numbers 2, 4, 6, 8 form an arithmetic progression because you add 2 each time.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A sequence in which the difference between any two consecutive terms is constant.
In the arithmetic progression 5, 10, 15, 20, the common difference is 5.
3. The sum of the terms of such a sequence, often called an arithmetic series.
Adding the first ten terms of the arithmetic progression gives an arithmetic series.
4. A pattern of steady, equal steps used in math problems and puzzles.
The staircase heights 1, 2, 3, 4 meters follow an arithmetic progression.