Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈaksəˌrāt/

Definitions

• Verb: To increase in speed or rate.
• Verb (Physics): To cause to move faster or increase in velocity.
• Verb (Figurative): To hasten the progress of a process or event.

Usage Examples

• "The car began to accelerate as it approached the highway."
• "She took steps to accelerate the development of the new software."
• "To accelerate growth, the company focused on expanding its market reach."

Etymology

From Latin "accelerare," meaning "to hasten" or "to quicken," from "ad-" (toward) + "celer" (swift). First used in English in the early 17th century.

Synonyms

• Hasten
• Speed up
• Quicken
• Expedite
• Increase

Antonyms

• Decelerate
• Slow down
• Delay
• Retard

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation is typically "ak-suh-rayt."
• In British English, it may be pronounced more clearly with emphasis on the second syllable: "ak-SEH-rayt."

Historical Usage

The term "accelerate" was first recorded in English in the 17th century and has been used primarily in scientific contexts since the 18th century, particularly in physics and mechanics. Over time, it has expanded into general and figurative use to describe actions that speed up processes in everyday contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The use of "accelerate" is often linked to urgency or rapid progress. In business and technology, "accelerating growth" or "accelerating innovation" suggests a focus on fast-paced development, particularly in high-tech industries. In transportation, "accelerating" typically refers to increasing speed in vehicles and machinery.

More Information

The concept of acceleration is critical not only in physics but also in everyday language. In physics, acceleration refers to any change in the velocity of an object, whether speeding up, slowing down, or changing direction. In metaphorical contexts, "accelerating" a process, such as economic growth or social change, refers to efforts to speed up the progress of these processes, often by reducing barriers or overcoming obstacles.