- Today's Word
Accretion
uh-KREE-shuhn
Definition
- (noun) The gradual accumulation or growth of layers, particles, or matter over time.
Example
The coastline expanded slowly due to the accretion of sand carried by the tides.
Fun Fact
“Accretion” comes from the Latin accretio, meaning “growth” or “increase.” The term is widely used in science, such as in astronomy, where it describes the process of material gathering around a celestial body. It also has metaphorical applications, often symbolizing the slow but steady buildup of ideas, habits, or relationships.
(adjective) focused on practical results and real-world consequences rather than ideals, theories, or abstract principles.
Instead of arguing over perfect solutions, she took a pragmatic approach and fixed what could be done immediately.
Pragmatic traces back to the Greek word pragmatikos, meaning “relating to deeds or actions,” from pragma (“thing done” or “action”). It entered English in the late 16th century, originally referring to people skilled in managing practical affairs, before evolving into its modern meaning of valuing usefulness and outcomes over theory.