WordGarden.iobuild
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɪld/
US
- /ˈbɪld/
Meanings
Verb
construct or assemble a physical thing
develop, establish, or increase something over time
create or compile software or a digital product
Noun
a person's body shape and size
a particular software version or game setup
the construction or form of an object
Beyond the definition
To build isn't just about stacking bricks! It means to construct something physical—like a house or a bridge—but it also applies to creating things that aren't tangible. You can build a friendship, build trust, or even build a reputation over time. Think of a child building with blocks: they're assembling individual pieces into something larger and more complex.
The word comes from the Old English "byldan," meaning to construct or make a dwelling. You might build up your strength through exercise, or build on an existing idea to create something new. Sometimes "build" even means to increase in intensity—like a storm building over the horizon. So next time you're working towards a goal, remember you're not just striving, you're building!
The word "build" fundamentally means to construct or create something by assembling parts or materials. This is most literally seen in physical structures: "They built a beautiful cabin in the woods," or "Engineers are building a new bridge across the river." But its meaning extends far beyond bricks and mortar.
You can build relationships, fostering connections with others over time through shared experiences and mutual respect. You build skills by practicing and learning, gradually developing expertise. A company might build brand awareness through marketing and advertising. And you can even build an argument—carefully assembling evidence to support a claim.
"Build" also has nuances related to growth or increase. A feeling might build in intensity ("Her anger began to build"), or something might be built up over time ("He built up a large collection of stamps"). To "build someone up" means to encourage and praise them, while to "tear someone down" is the opposite.
Interestingly, "build" can also describe the process of preparing for a specific result: "She's building towards her goal of running a marathon." This sense relates to its deep roots in the idea of establishing a foundation and making something ready for use.
So, whether you're constructing a physical object, developing a relationship, or working toward a future ambition, "build" encompasses the act of creation, growth, and preparation—assembling pieces into something stronger, more complex, and lasting.
Examples
- 1
Construction
They’re building a new bridge near the station.
- 2
Fitness
Regular exercise helps build muscle.
- 3
Business
She spent years building her own business.
- 4
Relationships
It takes time to build trust after a mistake.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Language learning
The course is designed to build confidence in speaking English.
- 6
Developing ideas
We can build on this idea in the next meeting.
- Patternbuild on + idea/work
use it as a starting point and develop it further
- 7
Rising pressure
Pressure was building as the deadline got closer.
- 8
Team development
Over the summer, we built up a strong team.
- Phrasebuild up
develop something gradually
- 9
Expectations
Don’t build your hopes up too much.
- Phrasebuild your hopes up
make yourself expect something very good
- 10
Body type
He’s tall and slim, with a runner’s build.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- buildnounverb
Forms
- building-ing formverbnoun
- builtpast tensepast participleverbnoun
- buildspluralnounverb