Definitions

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.

Signs of neutrophil-driven inflammation have been observed in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, and animal studies suggest these cells can accelerate disease progression.

From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026

While hoping for a "sustained resolution" to the Middle East conflict, RTX CEO Chris Calio told a Wall Street analyst call the company was working with the Pentagon "to accelerate munitions production."

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

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

“To accelerate, simply flap your arms faster. However, be advised: The faster you fly, the more energy your pterodactyl will consume. Your winged avatar will have a ‘life battery’ icon glowing on its back.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein

Vocabulary lists containing accelerate

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

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Holes

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Commonly Misspelled Words, List 2

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