plural growths
1
: the process of growing: such as
a
: natural increase in size
He had a growth spurt when he was 16 years old.
She's concerned that the medication might slow/stunt her child's growth.
—often + ofthe growth of facial hair
the growth of a crystal
b
: the process of forming or developing something
He discovered a substance that promotes the growth of new blood vessels.
c
: an increase in the number, amount, or size of something
The city has undergone explosive growth in recent years.
rapid growth
slow/steady growth
the growth of civilization
population/economic growth
Children's books are a growth area [=an area of business that is becoming larger and more successful] in the publishing industry.
Children's publishing is a growth industry. [=a business that is becoming larger and more successful]
The company has limited growth potential. [=the company is not likely to grow much larger]
d
: the development of a person's mind, emotions, etc.
He sees his college years as an opportunity for personal growth.
emotional/intellectual growth
2
: a result or product of growing
It's important to prune the bush every year to encourage new growth.
Their profits have averaged five percent growth in the last four years.
The tree has an average annual growth of almost a foot.
a thick growth of underbrush
3
medical
: an abnormal mass of tissue (such as a tumor)
a cancerous growth
Cite this Entry
“Growth.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/growth. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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