accrued

American  

[uh-krood] / əˈkrud /

adjective

1. added as a matter of periodic gain or advantage, as interest on money.

   Each year, grants from the accrued interest on the trust fund are awarded to agencies and programs serving the Navajo Nation.

2. happening or coming as or through a natural growth or addition; accumulated.

   The handmade ornaments speak of generations of accrued skill and a high degree of workmanship.

3. Law. noting a right or demand that has become present and enforceable.

   Termination will not affect the accrued rights of either party under this Agreement.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of accrue.

Other Word Forms

• nonaccrued
  adjective
• unaccrued
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of accrued

accrue ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does accrued compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• incurred vs. accrued

Explanation

If something accumulates over a period of time, you can describe this with the adjective accrued. The principal in your bank account is so small, you'll never get rich off the accrued interest. You'd better plan on getting a job. The adjective accrued comes from the Old French word acreu, meaning growth or increase, which is what the modern word describes as well — something that grows or accumulates over time. You forgot to pay your taxes on time. Now, with the accrued fees and penalties, you now owe twice as much as you did originally. The government is happy to take the extra money, but you should try to avoid that costly mistake in the future.

Example Sentences

Accrued time on the wait list is part of the calculus that determines which patients get the first shot at kidneys when they become available.

From Washington Post • Apr. 10, 2023

Accrued liabilities rose 38% to $2.9 billion, and accounts payable rose 11% to $3.7 billion.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 29, 2020

The Accrued Sick and Safe Leave Act of 2008 made the District the second major city behind San Francisco to guarantee workers a right to paid sick days.

From Washington Post

Accrued interest is almost two billion more, making twelve.

From Time Magazine Archive

Accrued leave may accumulate for not more than five years of service.

From The Philippines: Past and Present (Volume 1 of 2) by Worcester, Dean C.