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Accretion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒฑ
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accretion

[ษ™หˆkriหสƒ(ษ™)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

astronomy

The process of growth or increase, typically by the gradual accumulation of additional layers or material.

Synonyms

accumulation, growth, increase.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accretion

This word is also repeated by mistake here; to avoid redundancy, it's the same as the previous context.

  • Please refer to the previous entry for 'accretion'
accumulation

Refers to the process of gradually gathering or amassing things, often used in contexts where items, wealth, or data are collected.

  • The accumulation of data over the years helped the scientists make new discoveries
growth

Used to describe the process of developing or expanding, often applied to living organisms, economies, or businesses.

  • The company's growth over the last quarter was impressive
increase

Refers to a rise in number, size, amount, or degree, and can be used in a wide variety of contexts.

  • There was a significant increase in temperature this summer

Examples of usage

  • The planet grew through the accretion of smaller particles.
  • Stellar accretion is the process by which a star gains mass from its surrounding material.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

The process of growth or increase by the gradual accumulation of sediment.

Synonyms

accumulation, deposition, sedimentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accretion

Primarily used in scientific contexts to describe the gradual growth or increase of layers or matter over time.

  • The planet's rings were formed by the accretion of dust and rock particles.
  • The accretion of ice on the airplane's wings posed a serious threat to its safety.
sedimentation

Specifically used to describe the process of sediment settling out of a fluid. Commonly used in geological and environmental contexts.

  • Sedimentation in the lake has greatly reduced its depth.
  • The scientist studied the rate of sedimentation in coastal areas.
deposition

Often used in geological or legal contexts. In geology, it refers to the laying down of sediment carried by wind, water, or ice. In law, it refers to the sworn, out-of-court testimony of a witness.

  • The river's deposition of silt created fertile land for farming.
  • During the deposition, the witness provided crucial evidence for the case.
accumulation

Used more generally to describe the gradual collection or gathering of items or quantities over time. Can be used in everyday situations.

  • The accumulation of wealth is his main goal.
  • After the heavy rain, there was an accumulation of water in the basement.

Examples of usage

  • The formation of new land is often due to the accretion of sediment in river deltas.
  • Accretion plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface over time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'accretion'

The word 'accretion' comes from the Latin word 'accretionem', meaning 'a growing larger'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the process of gradual growth or increase, especially in the fields of astronomy and geology.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,894, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.