gain momentum

gain momentum (third-person singular simple present gains momentum, present participle gaining momentum, simple past and past participle gained momentum)

1. (literally) To increase something's own speed while being acted on by gravity.
2. (idiomatic) Synonym of gain ground (to further the progress of; to obtain an advantage)
3. (idiomatic) To become popular among a large amount of people; to have many people participate in a trend or social movement.
   • 1983 April 12, “Pilgrimage”, in Murmur, performed by R.E.M.:

     The pilgrimage has gained momentum!