Accumulate
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3
Time Duration
Use 'accumulate' to show that something is increasing over a period of time, not instantly. Over the years, he accumulated a vast collection of stamps.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Always Positive
'Accumulate' can refer to both desirable and undesirable increases, such as debts or problems. They accumulated a lot of debt after buying the house.
Pro Tip 3/3
Subtle Growth
The process of accumulating is often subtle and not easily noticed until it's significant. I didn't realize how much clutter I had accumulated over the years.