Part of Speech

verb

Pronunciation

/bɪld/

Definitions

1. To construct or form by putting together parts; to create or make something.

2. To develop or improve something over time, especially with effort and care.

3. To raise or increase something, such as strength, resources, or influence.

Usage Examples

1. "They decided to build a new house in the countryside."

2. "She worked hard to build a successful career."

3. "The community came together to build a stronger economy."

Etymology

From Middle English "bilden," from Old English "byldan" meaning "to build," a word derived from the Proto-Germanic *buildan. It is related to the Dutch "bouwen" and German "bauen," which both mean "to build." The root of the word traces back to Proto-Indo-European *bʰeu- meaning "to be, exist, grow."

Synonyms

• Construct
• Erect
• Assemble
• Create
• Develop

Antonyms

• Demolish
• Destroy
• Ruinate
• Disassemble
• Break

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "build" is fairly consistent in most English dialects, but regional accents can slightly alter the emphasis on the vowel sound. For example, in some British dialects, the vowel sound may be pronounced more like "bill" rather than "billed," while in some American accents, the "i" might be pronounced as a short "i" (as in "bit").

Historical Usage

The verb "build" has been in use since Old English, where it was commonly used in contexts related to constructing buildings or other large structures. Over the centuries, its meaning expanded to encompass abstract constructions, such as building a reputation, building knowledge, or building a relationship. It has remained a central word in describing the act of creation and development in various fields.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "building" is deeply tied to human culture and progress. In many cultures, the act of building is seen as a symbol of growth, achievement, and community effort. Building physical structures, like homes or temples, has spiritual significance in many societies, while "building" non-physical things, like legacies or futures, is often associated with hard work and vision.

More Information

The act of building is fundamental to human development, whether it's constructing a shelter, creating something artistic, or establishing societal frameworks. Historically, the process of building has been at the heart of civilizations, influencing everything from architecture and engineering to the way communities function and evolve. The word "build" transcends literal construction, becoming a metaphor for growth in numerous areas of life.