German word

vermehren

Pronunciation

IPA/fɛɐ̯ˈmeːʁən/

Meaning

  • verbincrease

Example

Wir vermehren die Pflanzen im Garten.

We are increasing the number of plants in the garden.

Illustration for vermehren (increase)

More examples

Unter günstigen Bedingungen können sich Bakterien vermehren.

Under favorable conditions, bacteria can multiply.

Core concept

A stock of plants, goods, or creatures becomes larger through added members.

Common phrases

  • sich vermehren

    multiply

  • die Anzahl vermehren

    increase the number

Similar words

zunehmen: Become greater in amount or degree over time or through a process.
vergrößern: Make something physically larger or extend its size or range.
erhöhen: Raise a numerical value, level, or percentage to a higher point.
steigern: Increase an effect, performance, or result to a higher level.

Definition in German

Etwas bewusst in Anzahl oder Umfang steigern, besonders bei Lebewesen oder Beständen.

Word origin

Vermehren combines ver- with mehren, the verb formed from mehr, meaning to make something more numerous or extensive.

Usage tips

  • The reflexive form sich vermehren describes organisms or quantities increasing without naming an agent.

Other meanings

  • multiplyverb
  • reproduceverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Vermehrungmultiplicationnoun
  • vermehrendmultiplyingadjective

Word lists with this word