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 verb 1 : to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole : construct
2 : to cause to be constructed
3 : to develop according to a systematic plan, by a definite process, or on a particular base
4 : increase, enlargeintransitive verb 1 : to engage in building
2 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>