Progressive video represents each complete frame as an image rather than dividing successive moments into alternating fields. It is commonly indicated by a p in a format description. Its appearance still depends on resolution, frame rate, compression and display processing, so progressive presentation is only one part of a source's overall picture behaviour.
A practical example
A player receiving a progressive sports stream can present complete video frames in sequence. It does not need the same field-combining process required by an interlaced source, although the display may still scale the image or adjust its output timing.
A common misunderstanding
Do not confuse progressive scan with progressive downloading. One describes the image structure, while the other describes obtaining a file while it can already begin playing.
Related terms
Stable technical definition. Editorial approach