crecer
/kɾeˈθeɾ/
Definition
To grow — to become bigger, taller, or more developed over time.
Example
Los niños crecen muy rápido durante los primeros años.
Show translation
Children grow very fast during the first years.
Etymology
From Latin *crescere* ("to grow, increase"), from Proto-Indo-European root **(s)ker-* ("to turn, bend"). Related to English *crescent* (the growing phase of the moon) and *increase*, and to Spanish cognates like *creciente* (rising/waxing) and *crecimiento* (growth).
Cultural note
In Spanish-speaking cultures, the phrase *"de mayor"* ("when I grow up") is a beloved childhood expression. *Crecer* also carries rich figurative weight — you'll hear *"crecer como persona"* (to grow as a person) constantly in motivational speech, song lyrics, and everyday conversation, making it far more emotionally versatile than its English equivalent.