accumulate
12 synonyms and 3 antonyms for accumulate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To gradually gather or build up over time.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use accumulate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
accumulate wealth
accumulate debt
accumulate over time
Etymology
From Latin accumulare, "to heap up," from ad- ("to") plus cumulus ("a heap") — the same root behind "cumulus" clouds.
Full origin of accumulate →Frequently asked questions
What does “accumulate” mean?
The word “accumulate” means to gradually gather or build up over time. In plain terms, to build up little by little until there's a large amount.
How do you pronounce “accumulate”?
“Accumulate” is pronounced uh-KYOOM-yuu-layt (/əˈkju.mjəˌleɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “accumulate” in a sentence?
Here is “accumulate” used in a sentence: “Dust had accumulated on the shelves after months of neglect.”
What is another word for “accumulate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “accumulate” include accrue, add up, amound, gather, garner and get up.
What is the opposite of “accumulate”?
The opposite of “accumulate” — its antonyms — are decline, decumulate and lose.
What part of speech is “accumulate”?
“Accumulate” is a verb.
Where does the word “accumulate” come from?
The word “accumulate” comes from Latin. From Latin accumulare, "to heap up," from ad- ("to") plus cumulus ("a heap") — the same root behind "cumulus" clouds.
Is “accumulate” a common word?
“Accumulate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
