build

play

verb \ˈbild\

Definition of build

built

play \ˈbilt\;

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
2a : to progress toward a peak (as of intensity) build to a climaxb : 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

See build defined for English-language learners

See build defined for kids

Examples of build in a Sentence

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.

Origin and Etymology of build

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

First Known Use: before 12th century

build

noun

Definition of build

: 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

See build defined for English-language learners

Examples of build in a Sentence

He is strong and muscular in build.
a man of average build

Origin and Etymology of build

see ¹build

First Known Use: 1667

Other Anatomy Terms

bilateral symmetry, carotid, cartilage, dorsal, entrails, prehensile, renal, solar plexus, supine, thoracic, ventral

BUILD Defined for English Language Learners

build

play

verb

Definition of build for English Language Learners

: to make (something) by putting together parts or materials
: to develop or form (something) gradually
: to increase the amount of (something)

build

noun

Definition of build for English Language Learners

: the shape and size of a person's body

BUILD Defined for Kids

build

play

verb \ˈbild\

Definition of build for Students

built

\ˈbilt\;

building

1 : to make by putting together parts or materials
2 : to produce or create gradually by effort It takes time to build a winning team.
3 : to grow or increase to a high point or level Excitement was building.