cumulative

The word “cumulative” means increasing or building up in stages, with each addition adding to what came before. In plain terms, building up gradually through a series of additions, so the total keeps growing.

“Cumulative” is pronounced KYOOM-yuu-luh-tihv (/ˈkjuːmjʊlətɪv/ in IPA).

Here is “cumulative” used in a sentence: “The cumulative effect of years of small savings added up to a comfortable retirement.”

“Cumulative” is an adjective.

The word “cumulative” comes from Latin. From Latin cumulare, "to heap up," from cumulus, "a heap" — the same root behind the cloud type "cumulus.".

“Cumulative” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Total simply refers to the sum of everything at a given point, while cumulative emphasizes the process of building up in stages, with each addition adding to what came before. A cumulative total specifically tracks how a figure grows over successive periods.

A cumulative effect is an impact that grows stronger over time because each occurrence adds to the ones before it, rather than acting alone. This term is common in discussions of pollution, stress, or repeated small actions.

In academic settings, cumulative often describes a grade point average or exam that reflects performance across an entire course of study rather than a single term. A cumulative GPA, for example, accounts for every grade earned so far.