Accrue

Verb

Definition: To accumulate or increase over time.

Synonyms: Accumulate, Gather, Amass

Antonyms: Disperse, Diminish, Decrease

Examples:

Interest will accrue on the account balance.
The benefits of hard work will accrue over time.

Mnemonics:

Think of "accrue" as "a-grew," meaning something that grew or accumulated.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'acreuen', from Old French 'acreu', past participle of 'acreistre', from Latin 'accrescere'.

Historical Usage:

The word 'accrue' has been used since the 15th century with a consistent meaning of gradual accumulation or growth.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Accrue interest"

Explanation:

Refers to the process of earning interest on an investment or deposit over time.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'accrue' with 'accrue expenses'

Explanation:

Some people mistakenly use 'accrue' to refer to the act of incurring or accumulating expenses, but 'accrue' specifically refers to the act of accumulating or increasing something positive or beneficial over time.