Main Entry:

¹build

Pronunciation:

\ˈbild\

Function:

verb

Inflected Form(s):

built \ˈbilt\ ; build·ing

Etymology:

Middle English bilden, from Old English byldan; akin to Old English būan to dwell — more at bower

Date:

before 12th century

transitive verb1: to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole : construct2: to cause to be constructed3: to develop according to a systematic plan, by a definite process, or on a particular base4: increase, enlargeintransitive verb1: to engage in building2 a: to progress toward a peak (as of intensity) <build to a climax> b: to develop in extent <a crowd building>

— build a fire under

: to stimulate to vigorous action

— build into

: to make an integral part of <build quality into the product>

— build on

: to use as a foundation <building on past experience>