Grow
/ɡroʊ/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo develop and become larger or more numerous; to increase.
/ɡroʊ/
To increase in size or amount.
The child is growing quickly.
💡 Simply: Think of a plant getting taller and bigger, or maybe your favorite game getting more popular. That's growing! It's about getting bigger and better.
👶 For kids: To get bigger, like a plant or a puppy!
More Examples
Our business is growing at a steady rate.
The plants grew tall in the sunshine.
How It's Used
"The company aims to grow its market share."
"Plants grow through photosynthesis."
To gradually become; to develop a particular state or feeling.
/ɡroʊ/
To become gradually.
She grew tired of the constant travel.
💡 Simply: Imagine you start to feel a certain way. Maybe you get to like something more, or maybe you start to get angry. That's also growing, as in your feelings or attitude is 'growing' to a point.
👶 For kids: To start feeling something more and more.
More Examples
I grew to appreciate the beauty of the scenery.
He grew more confident with each success.
How It's Used
"He grew impatient with the delay."
"They grew to love each other over time."
To cultivate or raise plants or animals.
/ɡroʊ/
Farmers grow corn in this area.
💡 Simply: When you grow food or animals, you cultivate or take care of them.
👶 For kids: To plant and take care of things so they can get bigger, like food or pets.
More Examples
She grows roses in her garden.
They grow their own vegetables.
How It's Used
"Farmers grow crops to feed their families."
"She grows vegetables in her garden."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
grow on someone
To become more likable or appealing over time.
"At first, I didn't like the music, but it's really grown on me."
to grow up
To mature or become an adult.
"When I grow up, I want to be a doctor."
From Old English *grōwan*, from Proto-Germanic *grōwaną* meaning 'to grow, thrive'. Related to words in other Germanic languages like German *grün* (green) and Dutch *groeien* (to grow).
The word 'grow' has been used in English since Old English times, with its meaning largely unchanged.