accretion
UK: əˈkriːʃ(ə)n | US: əˈkriːʃ(ə)n
n. the process of growth or increase, typically by the gradual accumulation of additional layers or matter
n. (astronomy) the coming together and cohesion of matter under the influence of gravitation to form larger bodies
n. (law) the addition of land to a property by natural forces, such as the gradual deposit of soil by a river
accretion = ac<to> + cre<grow> + tion<noun suffix>
- ac (to, from Latin ad-, meaning "toward")
- cre (grow, from Latin crescere, meaning "to grow")
- tion (noun suffix, indicating a process or result)
Etymology Origin:
The word accretion originates from Latin accretio, derived from accrescere ("to grow by addition"). The prefix ac- (variant of ad-) emphasizes directionality ("toward"), while cre- conveys growth. The term initially described natural processes like sediment buildup, later expanding to astronomy (e.g., planetary formation) and legal contexts (land expansion). The morphemes logically combine to reflect incremental growth through accumulation.
The stalactite formed through the slow accretion of mineral deposits over centuries.
Planetary scientists study the accretion of dust and gas to understand star formation.
The river delta expanded by the accretion of silt carried downstream.
Legal disputes arose over land accretion caused by shifting river boundaries.
The artist’s style evolved through the accretion of influences from various cultures.