jerry-build

1 of 2

verb

jer·​ry-build ˈjer-ē-ˌbild How to pronounce jerry-build (audio)
jerry-built ˈjer-ē-ˌbilt How to pronounce jerry-build (audio) ; jerry-building
Synonyms of jerry-buildnext

transitive verb

: to build cheaply and flimsily
jerry-builder noun

jerry-builder

2 of 2

noun

: one that jerry-builds
especially : a builder who erects cheap buildings of poor materials and unsubstantial construction especially on speculation for quick sale

Word History

Etymology

Verb

back-formation from jerry-built

First Known Use

Verb

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jerry-build was in 1832

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Jerry-build.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jerry-build. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on jerry-build

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster