build

1 of 2

verb

built ˈbilt How to pronounce build (audio) ; building

transitive verb

1
: to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole : construct
birds building a nest
build new hospitals and schools
the boat her father built
2
: to cause to be constructed
a contractor who has built hundreds of homes
3
: to develop according to a systematic plan, by a definite process, or on a particular base
building a legal case against her
built the organization from the ground up
4
: increase, enlarge
helps build muscle
build support for their candidate
building friendships

intransitive 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

2 of 2

noun

plural builds
1
: form or mode of structure : make
the boxy build of the car
especially : bodily conformation of a person or animal
a man of stocky build
2
: a version or iteration of a product or component
We worked with several builds of the beta code, which was in itself instructive. Things that worked perfectly in one version stopped working at all in the next release.Bill Machrone et al.
Phrases
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

Examples of build in a Sentence

Verb The bridge was built in the 1890s. The planes were built in Germany. The organization helps build houses for poor families. A family of birds has built a nest on our roof. She started building a fire in the fireplace. He built a model airplane from a kit. You will need permission to build on your property. They are building a legal case against the tobacco industry. scientists building theories about how the universe began At college, you'll build friendships that will last a lifetime. Noun He is strong and muscular in build. a man of average build
Recent Examples on the Web
Verb
Another major problem has been posed by impenetrable boulders where the city wants to build a pipeline tunnel under Interstate 805 near Executive Drive. David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2024 Working together to make certain progress keep moving forward, building on a foundation that has proven to be solid and an environment that is conducive for growth and development. Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Apr. 2024 In addition to the arena, Meruelo aims to build an entertainment district in north Phoenix. Corina Vanek, The Arizona Republic, 21 Apr. 2024 Odesa’s free port status financed its extraordinary architectural flowering in the 1800s and helped build its vibrant multiethnic society. Laura King, Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2024 The Roots and Soul also hope to build a temporary, 10,000-seat modular stadium on the 8.8-acre Malibu lot. Shomik Mukherjee, The Mercury News, 20 Apr. 2024 As these programs become more widespread, employees can weather economic uncertainty and build stronger relationships with their employers. Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 20 Apr. 2024 Jon’s commitment is basically to provide a high-end concierge service — scouting, going through any permitting issues, continuing to build out the Film Ready NJ program in communities. Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 20 Apr. 2024 The secluded parcel provides an opportunity to expand or build a secondary residence. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2024
Noun
Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill in Red With 155 square inches of cooking space, a 200- to 700-degree temperature range, triple-walled build for maximum heat insulation and easy-carrying handles, this is a fisherman's or camping enthusiast's dream. Kelsey Chapman, ABC News, 17 Apr. 2024 Architect, Registered - Port Everglades Description: Registered with the Seaport Engineering and Construction Division and responsible for developing applicable scope for building retrofits, re-designs, and new builds for the Port Everglades Department. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 15 Apr. 2024 For some people, a more heavy and substantial build, like the Breville Sous Chef 12 Plus, provides a high-quality and durable feel. Jack Byram, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 2024 This is facilitated by a full titanium build, which lightens components while simultaneously reducing the negative effects of shock and acceleration. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2024 There are three possible builds with this kit, starting with an astronaut with poseable arms and legs, a golden visor that opens and closes, and a detachable jet pack. Alida Nugent, Peoplemag, 10 Apr. 2024 However, coyotes typically have slimmer builds, narrower snouts and smaller paws than wolves; their ears also seem proportionately larger and pointier. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Apr. 2024 The founders, Sally Mueller and Michelle Jacobs, have played a crucial role in changing the narrative surrounding menopause, and their efforts to promote healthy aging, build communities, and empower women have earned widespread recognition. Angela Chan, Forbes, 30 Mar. 2024 The Padel Court will set you back approximately $254,000 (£200,000) but that figure will vary depending on the scale of the build. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'build.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Verb and Noun

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

First Known Use

Verb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Noun

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of build was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near build

Cite this Entry

“Build.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/build. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

build

1 of 2 verb
built ˈbilt How to pronounce build (audio) ; building
1
: to make by putting together parts or materials : construct
build a house
build a bridge
2
: to produce or create gradually
build a winning team
build up your strength
3
: to move or grow toward a peak
excitement was building

build

2 of 2 noun
: form or kind of structure
especially : physique

More from Merriam-Webster on build

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!