accelerate

[ak-sel-uh-reyt] / ækˈsɛl əˌreɪt /

VERB

increase speed, timing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advance expedite further hasten open up quicken spur step up stimulate

STRONG

drive dust forward gun hurry impel precipitate railroad rev roll tool

WEAK

fire up hammer on lay a patch lay rubber make tracks nail it peel rubber put on afterburners put pedal to metal rev up speed up step on the gas

Antonyms

STRONGEST

block cease check delay discourage halt hinder slow stop

STRONG

dissuade repress wait

WEAK

decelerate defer impede postpone retard slow down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Extending the waiver on Friday, the US said it wanted "to ensure oil is available to those ⁠who need it" as negotiations to end the war "accelerate".

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

Already saddled with some of the nation’s highest combined tax burdens, New York City cannot afford policies that accelerate outmigration, deter investment and stifle growth.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

Headline and core inflation are expected to accelerate, driven by higher imported energy costs amid rising global crude oil, refined petroleum and gas prices.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“It will increase costs and increase the burden on others to organize their selves and accelerate the tendency toward regional supply chains.”

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

Yes, despite its thimble-sized engine that sounded like a sewing machine, the Gremlin was managing to accelerate.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides

Vocabulary lists containing accelerate

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Holes

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Commonly Misspelled Words, List 2

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!