exˈcrescent

/ ɪkˈskrɛsənt /

adjective

1. denoting, relating to, or resembling an abnormal outgrowth
2. uselessly added; not essential; superfluous
3. denoting or relating to a speech sound or letter inserted into a word without etymological justification, such as the b in nimble

Derived Forms

• exˈcrescently, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of exˈcrescent¹

C17: from Latin excrēscēns, from excrēscere, from crēscere to grow