First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1build
verb \ˈbild\
: to make (something) by putting together parts or materials
: to develop or form (something) gradually
: to increase the amount of (something)
built \ˈbilt\ build·ing
Full Definition of BUILD
transitive verb
1
: to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole : construct
2
: to cause to be constructed
3
: to develop according to a systematic plan, by a definite process, or on a particular base
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 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
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Origin of BUILD
Middle English bilden, from Old English byldan; akin to Old English būan to dwell — more at bower
Related to BUILD
2build
noun
: the shape and size of a person's body
Full Definition of BUILD
: form or mode of structure : make; especially : bodily conformation of a person or animal
See build defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of BUILD
1667
Other Anatomy Terms
BUILD[1] Defined for Kids
1build
verb \ˈbild\
built \ˈbilt\build·ing
Definition of BUILD for Kids
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.>
Synonym Discussion of BUILD
build, construct, and erect mean to make a structure. build is used for putting together several parts or materials to form something. <Workers are building the house.> construct is used for the designing of something and the process of fitting its parts together. <Engineers constructed a system of dams across the river.> erect is used for the idea of building something that stands up. <The tower was erected many years ago.>
2build
noun
Definition of BUILD for Kids
: the shape and size of a person's or animal's body <The boy has a slender build.>
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