building

noun

build·​ing ˈbil-diŋ How to pronounce building (audio)
1
: a usually roofed and walled structure built for permanent use (as for a dwelling)
2
: the art or business of assembling materials into a structure

Examples of building in a Sentence

My office is in that small brick building. We bought the land for building.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The building holds just 11 suites and has a stylish bar on its ground floor. Emilio Parra Doiztua, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025 Months later, lawmakers approved the $2 billion and celebrated it as the largest investment in school buildings in state history. Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 15 Oct. 2025 The building also recalls the shipyard’s past and pays homage to its founder, Giovanna’s father Paolo Vitelli, who passed away in 2024. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2025 The building was three stories tall. Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for building

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of building was in the 13th century

Cite this Entry

“Building.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/building. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

building

noun
build·​ing ˈbil-diŋ How to pronounce building (audio)
1
: a permanent structure built as a dwelling, shelter, or place for human activity or for storage
an office building
2
: the art, work, or business of assembling materials into a structure

More from Merriam-Webster on building

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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