increase

in-crease · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To become or make larger in amount, degree, or size.

  2. 2.

    To multiply or reproduce.

  3. 3.

    An instance of growing or making greater.

  4. 4.

    The amount by which something grows.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on the increase — becoming larger or more common
  • •
    increase in value — become worth more
  • •
    increase by/to — specify the amount or new level

Related words

Antonyms: decrease, diminish, reduce
See also: decrease, expand, grow, rise
Synonyms: augment, expand, grow, rise

Etymology

From Anglo-French "encreistre," from Latin "incrēscere" (to grow upon, grow into), from "in-" (in, upon) + "crēscere" (to grow). Related to "crescent" and "crescendo."