/əˈkrɛʃən/ i

Definitions

1. noun

the process or act of growing or increasing in size, amount, or degree, especially through the addition of new layers or material

“The accretion of ice on the glacier was a major concern for the scientists studying its movement.”

2. noun

a small mass of matter that has been added to a larger one, especially a planet or star

“The accretion of asteroids and comets helped to form the planets in our solar system.”

3. noun

an increase in size, amount, or degree, especially through the addition of new layers or material

“The accretion of knowledge over the years has helped her become a leading expert in her field.”

4. verb

to grow or increase in size, amount, or degree, especially through the addition of new layers or material

“The river has been accreting land over the years, causing the shoreline to move inland.”