Which term means to gather or collect things over time?

The term "accumulate" pertains specifically to the act of gradually gathering or collecting items, resources, or information over a period. This process emphasizes the idea of increasing quantity or volume as separate items are progressively added together. For example, one might accumulate savings by consistently adding a portion of their income over time, or a researcher might accumulate data through ongoing observations or experiments.

The other terms do not convey the same meaning. "Criteria" refers to standards or principles by which something is judged or decided, which does not imply a process of gathering. "Validate" means to confirm or check the accuracy or correctness of something, focusing on assessment rather than collection. "Inhibit" refers to the act of hindering or restraining, which again does not relate to the concept of gathering or accumulation. This distinction highlights why "accumulate" is the most accurate choice in this context.