accrue

[ uh-kroo ]

verb (used without object)

, ac·crued, ac·cru·ing.

1. to happen or result as a natural growth, addition, etc.

   Synonyms: gather, collect, accumulate

   Antonyms: scatter, dissipate, disperse, dispel

2. to be added as a matter of periodic gain or advantage, such as an employment benefit or interest on money:

   Paid time off is accrued weekly, at a rate of one hour per week.

   Synonyms: increase, grow

   Antonyms: lessen, diminish, decrease, dwindle

3. Law. to become a present and enforceable right or demand.

accrue

/ əˈkruː /

verb

1. to increase by growth or addition, esp (of capital) to increase by periodic addition of interest
2. often foll by to to fall naturally (to); come into the possession (of); result (for)
3. law (of a right or demand) to become capable of being enforced

Other Words From

• ac·cru·a·ble adjective
• ac·crue·ment noun
• non·ac·cru·ing adjective
• su·per·ac·crue verb (used without object) superaccrued superaccruing

Word History and Origins

Origin of accrue¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English acruen, acrewen, probably from Anglo-French accru(e), Middle French accreu(e), past participle of ac(c)resitre “to increase,” from Latin accrēscere “to grow”; ac-, crew ¹, accretion

Word History and Origins

Origin of accrue¹

C15: from Old French accreue growth, ultimately from Latin accrēscere to increase, from ad- to, in addition + crēscere to grow

Example Sentences

The Education Department says the loans in forbearance won’t accrue interest, but they won’t move any closer to forgiveness, either.

From Los Angeles Times

"At the very least, those that accrue 12 or more points on their licence should be required to take an additional training course, even if they are allowed to keep their licence," he said.

From BBC

Investors who provide liquidity for tokens on decentralized exchanges could donate the trading fees they accrue.

From Salon

Biden also won more than 81.2 million votes, much higher than the 72 million to 74 million votes Trump will ultimately accrue.

From Salon

In long friendships, the years multiply, the debts seem to accrue, even if I'm the only one counting.

From Salon

Related Words

• accumulate
• amass