world-building

noun

world-build·​ing ˈwərl(d)-ˈbil-diŋ 

variants or less commonly world building or worldbuilding

: the creation of a fictional world (especially within the science fiction and fantasy genres) that is believable and consistent within the context of the story

The game pushes the limits of the PS4 graphically and packs so much mythos and backstory into its world-building that at times it feels more like a novel than a video game.

—Patrick Shanley

In my opinion, no one does world-building as well as Kate Elliott. It's subtle … but the world, culture, and societies she creates feel solid. If you think about them when you close the book, you can see how they could work; how the economics could work, how the governing could work, how the cultures formed.

—Michelle West

In postapocalyptic stories, world building typically emphasizes the new reality: new vocabulary to learn, new systems of government to understand, new social norms to parse.

—Shirley Li

It sounds like a lot to take in, but "The Sandman" neatly avoids many genre show pitfalls. While at times its premise and worldbuilding do feel a bit murky, for the most part, it's even less confusing for a layman to get into than other sprawling similar shows such as "Westworld" or "The Witcher."

—Lauren Sarner

Examples of world-building in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Romance readers expect a happily-ever-after, thriller readers want escalating tension, and fantasy readers expect world-building—genre is essentially a contract with your audience. —Jennifer Sodini, Rolling Stone, 16 Oct. 2025

Emily’s original work blends absurd comedy, colorful world-building, and cultural critique, often centering outsiders who are trying—and failing—in deeply funny ways, to understand themselves and each other. —Denise Petski, Deadline, 14 Oct. 2025

That this cinematic universe fizzled like a spell gone awry is a shame because Sapkowski’s world-building is thrilling and original — funnier and more creature driven than the dour family dealings on the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 7 Oct. 2025

Judy Lee, global head of experiences at Pinterest, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between world-building and fandoms to create deeply immersive real-life experiences that resonate with audiences at the core. —Giana Levy, Variety, 26 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for world-building

• boatbuilding
• outbuilding
• rebuilding
• roadbuilding
• shipbuilding
• upbuilding
• bodybuilding
• building
• gilding