creciente
“creciente” means “growing” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
growing, increasing
Also: waxing, rising
📝 In Action
Hay un interés creciente por aprender español.
A2There is a growing interest in learning Spanish.
La tensión creciente entre los dos países es preocupante.
B1The increasing tension between the two countries is worrying.
Esta noche veremos la luna creciente.
B1Tonight we will see the waxing moon.
flood, crescent
Also: swelling
📝 In Action
La creciente del río inundó las calles.
B1The river's rise flooded the streets.
El símbolo de la bandera es un creciente y una estrella.
B2The symbol on the flag is a crescent and a star.
Debemos tener cuidado con la creciente esta noche.
B2We must be careful with the rising tide/flood tonight.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: creciente
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase describes the moon as it gets bigger each night?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'crescens', which describes the act of growing or coming into existence.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'creciente' and 'crecimiento'?
'Creciente' is a description (an adjective like 'growing'), while 'crecimiento' is the name of the process (a noun like 'growth').
Is 'creciente' used for people growing up?
No, we usually use 'crecido' or 'en edad de crecimiento'. 'Creciente' is used more for abstract things like interest, tension, or the moon.
How do I say 'decreasing order' in Spanish?
You use the opposite of 'creciente', which is 'decreciente'. So, 'en orden decreciente'.