[ac.cre.tion] n [L accretion-, accretio, fr. accrescere--more at accrue] (1615) 1: the process of growth or enlargement by a gradual buildup: as a: increase by external addition or accumulation (as by adhesion of external parts or particles) b: the increase of land by the action of natural forces
2: a product of accretion; esp: an extraneous addition "~s of grime" -- ac.cre.tion.ary adj -- ac.cre.tive adj