WordLens

accrete

1 of 1verb
/əˈkrit/
Forms:accretes,accreting,accreted,accreted
1

grow together (of plants and organs)

2

to gradually grow or increase by adding layers or parts over time

  • Coral reefs accrete over time as coral polyps build upon the calcium carbonate skeletons of previous generations.
  • The artist's collection of paintings accreted over decades, reflecting her evolving style.
  • Sedimentary rocks accrete layer by layer as minerals and sediments settle and solidify over millennia.
  • The company's assets accreted through strategic acquisitions and prudent investments.
  • Language evolves as new words and meanings accrete into the lexicon over generations.