accretion
1 synonym and 1 antonym for accretion, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A gradual increase caused by new matter being added from outside.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A gradual increase caused by new matter being added from outside.
“The reef grew through the slow accretion of coral and sand.”
2. noun geology
In geology, the build-up of new rock or sediment along the edge of a landmass or plate.
“Accretion at the plate edge built up new land over millions of years.”
Opposites
How to use accretion
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
accretion of matter
accretion disc
gradual accretion
accretion of sediment
It is fairly formal and technical, common in science and law.
Etymology
English borrowed the word from Latin accrētiō, meaning increase. The Latin comes from accrēscō, meaning to grow.
Full origin of accretion →Frequently asked questions
What does accretion mean?
Accretion is a gradual increase caused by new matter being added from outside. It is used in general writing, geology and astrophysics.
What is accretion in geology?
Geologists use it for new material piling onto the edge of a plate or coast, as at a subduction zone.
How do planets form by accretion?
Planets and other bodies grow as gravity pulls matter together and it gathers into a larger body.
