ScienceSeptember 1, 2026

accreting

uh-KREET-ing

Definition

The process of a celestial object, such as a black hole, growing in mass by gravitationally pulling in and accumulating surrounding gas, dust, or matter.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'accrescere,' meaning 'to grow' or 'increase.' It entered English in the 17th century to describe the gradual accumulation of layers or matter.

In the news

In the article, the term describes a massive black hole that is actively pulling in surrounding hydrogen, which provides the immense energy output that makes the 'black hole star' so bright.

August research roundup: 7 cool science stories we almost missed

Read the full article ↗

Ars Technica

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