Words / C1

uh-KYOOM-y-uh-layt/əˈkjuːmjəleɪt/

Accumulate means gather or increase gradually over time, often without a single dramatic moment. Native writers use it for debt, evidence, experience, and unwanted stuff. Collect can be deliberate (collect stamps); accumulate often happens as a by-product. Amass is stronger and more intentional. Accumulation is the noun.

Meaning

To collect or increase over time.

Examples

• “Dust accumulated on the unused desk.”
• “Evidence accumulated against the original theory.”
• “Small fees accumulate if you ignore them.”

Good to know

accumulate = build up over time. collect = often on purpose. Noun: accumulation.

Near in meaning

build up

New