accretion
ac·cre·tion
/əˈkriːʃən/ noun , pl -tions
1 [ noncount ] : a gradual process in which layers of a material are formed as small amounts are added over time
rocks formed by the slow accretion of limestone
— often used figuratively
The gradual accretion of detail creates a complex and moving story.
2 [ count ] : something that has grown or accumulated slowly : a product or result of gradual growth
strangely shaped limestone accretions
There was an accretion of ice on the car's windshield.
