Definition

Not adding up or increasing over time; not accumulating.

Example

The noncumulative interest means that you will not earn interest on previously unpaid interest.

Conversation

Did you understand the financial report we got yesterday?

Not really, I found it a bit confusing.

Yeah, especially the part about noncumulative dividends.

Right! I think that means they don’t add up if you miss them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Noncumulative → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "cumulare" (meaning to heap or pile up) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "noncumulative" means not having the nature of accumulating or piling up.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') and 'piling up' ('cumulare') to remember that 'noncumulative' means something that does not accumulate.

Visually Confused Words