accumulated

3 definitions • 5 examples

past simple and past participle of

to collect a large number of things over a long period of time:

As people accumulate more wealth, they tend to spend a greater proportion of their incomes.

The company said the debt was accumulated during its acquisition of nine individual businesses.

We've accumulated so much rubbish over the years.

to gradually increase in number or amount:

A thick layer of dust had accumulated in the room.

If you don't go through the papers on your desk on a regular basis, they just keep on accumulating.