accrue
UK: əˈkruː | US: əˈkruː
vi. to increase or grow over time, especially financial interest or benefits
vt. to accumulate or receive (something, such as interest or rewards) gradually
The word "accrue" originates from Old French "acreu," the past participle of "acreistre" (to grow), derived from Latin "accrescere" (ad- "to" + crescere "grow"). It originally described natural growth (e.g., plants) but shifted to financial contexts in Middle English, reflecting gradual accumulation. The morpheme "crue" preserves the core idea of growth, while "ac" directs the action toward a goal.
Interest will accrue on the savings account monthly.
Vacation days accrue based on years of service.
The project’s benefits accrue over time.
Debts can accrue quickly if left unpaid.
Wisdom often accrues with age and experience.