verb (used with object),built or (Archaic) build·ed;build·ing.
to construct (especially something complex) by assembling and joining parts or materials: to build a house.
to establish, increase, or strengthen (often followed by up): to build a business; to build up one's hopes.
to mold, form, or create: to build boys into men.
to base; found: a relationship built on trust.
Games.
to make (words) from letters.
to assemble (cards) according to number, suit, etc., as in melding.
verb (used without object),built or (Archaic) build·ed;build·ing.
to engage in the art, practice, or business of building.
to form or construct a plan, system of thought, etc. (usually followed by on or upon): He built on the philosophies of the past.
to increase or develop toward a maximum, as of intensity, tempo, or magnitude (often followed by up): The drama builds steadily toward a climax.
noun
the physical structure, especially of a person; physique; figure: He had a strong build.
the manner or form of construction: The house was of modern build.
Computers.
a version of a program after compilation, typically an update to an existing version made before the program is released.
the process of producing a software build.
a new version or update of data in a database or on a website: frequent, incremental builds of data.
Masonry.
a vertical joint.
the vertical dimension of a stone laid on its bed.
Verb Phrases
build in / intoto build or incorporate as part of something else: to build in bookcases between the windows; an allowance for travel expenses built into the budget.
build up,
to develop or increase: to build up a bank account.
to strengthen.
to prepare in stages.
to fill in with houses; develop into an urban area.
to praise or flatter.
Origin of build
before 1150; Middle English bilden,Old English byldan, derivative of bold, variant of botl dwelling, house
OTHER WORDS FROM build
build·a·ble,adjectivemis·build,verb,mis·built,mis·build·ing.outbuild,verb (used with object),out·built,out·build·ing.pre·build,verb (used with object),pre·built,pre·build·ing.