[əˈkrɛt] (UK) or [əˈkrɛt] (US)

Definitions

1. verb

to grow or increase by gradual addition or accumulation of layers or material

“The moon’s crust is thought to have accreted from debris left over after the solar system’s formation.”

2. noun

a substance that grows or accumulates around a central body

“The comet’s tail is an accretion of gas and dust that trails behind it.”

3. noun

the process or action of growing or accumulating by the addition of layers or material

“The accretion of sediments formed a new island over time.”