Entry Word: accumulate

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to become greater in extent, volume, amount, or number <the number of complaints about that mail order firm is really accumulating> — see increase 2
2 to bring together in one body or place <finally accumulated enough donated books to hold a book sale> — see gather 1
3 to gradually form into a layer, pile, or mass <clouds accumulating on the western horizon> — see collect 2