accretion
uh-KREE-shuhn
/əˈkriː.ʃən/
Growth or increase by the gradual accumulation of additional layers or matter.
A very specific type of growth where new material sticks to the outside of the old material.
The story behind the word. From 'ad-' (to) and 'crescere' (to grow). It describes the process of something growing by having more stuff 'grow onto' it.
Word relationships
- accumulation: Accumulation is general; accretion specifically implies layers or external addition.
- erosion: Erosion is the gradual wearing away of material, the opposite of accretion.
Commonly confused with
- conglomeration: Conglomeration is a collection of different things; accretion is the process of adding more of the same or similar material.
Word family
- accrue (verb): To accumulate or receive (such as money or benefits) over time.
Collocations
- accretion disk
- gradual accretion
- accretion of wealth
Example sentences
- "The island was formed by the accretion of volcanic debris over millions of years." Geology
- "An accretion disk is a structure formed by diffused material in orbital motion around a massive central body." Astronomy
Memory hook
Think of 'a-cretion' as 'a-creation' of layers. Like a pearl forming in an oyster. Layer by layer.
When not to use
Not for internal biological growth (like a child growing taller) or abstract growth like 'happiness'.
Fun facts
- In law, accretion refers to the increase of land by the action of water, such as a river depositing soil.
Related words
Explore more words
accumulation, accrue, deposit, gradual, accelerate, supplement
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