1. gradual growth or increase by the addition of new layers or matter
2. something that has grown or been added gradually
3. the process by which celestial bodies grow by attracting and collecting matter
Usage: astronomy

Examples

• The cave formations were created by mineral accretions over thousands of years.
• Coral reefs grow through the slow accretions of calcium carbonate.
• The manuscript showed accretions of notes and corrections from multiple editors.
• Ice accretions on the aircraft wings posed a safety hazard.
• The planet formed through accretions of dust and gas in the early solar system.
• Sedimentary accretions in the riverbed changed the water’s flow pattern.
• The ancient text contained accretions from later scribes and translators.