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

The plant-based food industry has grown exponentially in recent years, with more people opting for a meat-free lifestyle.

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As expected, some of Swift’s more questionable lyrics — many of which were exponentially funnier as clean versions — garnered some chuckles, and “Actually Romantic,” an alleged Charli XCX diss track, notably concluded without applause.

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

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

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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.

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