'gradually-managed' originates from the combination of 'gradually,' which comes from the Latin word 'gradualis,' meaning 'step by step,' and 'managed,' from the Old French 'managier,' meaning 'to handle or direct.'

'gradualis' transformed into the English word 'gradual,' and 'managier' became 'manage' in English, eventually forming the compound adjective 'gradually-managed.'

Initially, 'gradual' meant 'step by step,' and 'manage' meant 'to handle or direct.' The combined term 'gradually-managed' retains these meanings, emphasizing a slow and steady approach to management.