# grower

/ˈɡɹoʊɝ/ (US) · /ɡɹˈəʊɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grower
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

something or someone that you do not like at first, but you start to like more as you spend time with them. It is often used to talk about music or people that take time to appreciate.

For teachers: a person or thing that initially fails to impress but gradually gains one's appreciation or affection over time. Frequently applied to creative works like albums or films.

## Examples

- I didn't like the song at first, but it's a real grower.
- The new lead singer was a grower; fans were skeptical at first but loved him by the tour's end.
- While the film's slow pacing initially alienated test audiences, it proved to be a grower, eventually achieving cult status as viewers discovered the subtle layers of the script upon repeat viewings.

## Usage notes

- Typically used with the indefinite article 'a' in the predicate of a sentence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.