exponentially

[ek-spoh-nen-shuh-lee, ‐spuh‐]

adverb

1. at a steady, rapid rate.

   The cost of a college education has increased exponentially over the last 30 years.

2. Mathematics.,  at a continuous rate of growth or decay that can be calculated using the constant e, according to the rules of raising e to the power of a positive or negative exponent.

   Any population growing exponentially must, sooner or later, encounter shortages of resources.

   The measurable rate at which a radioactive nuclide’s atoms decay exponentially is the basis of radiometric dating.

Other Word Forms

• nonexponentially adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of exponentially¹

exponential ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Industry experts say it has grown exponentially since the September 11 attacks in the US back in 2001.

From BBC

If those nine go about their lives in public spaces, numbers multiply exponentially.

From Salon

Needing to find a new host on short notice for an event that has grown exponentially both in competition and TV production since Denver’s sudden switch would be a nearly impossible task.

From Los Angeles Times

In the worst conditions, fires can grow exponentially, meaning a nascent fire going unnoticed for just a few minutes could mean the difference between a close call and the loss of homes and lives.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s no debating that his swagger has increased exponentially.

From Los Angeles Times