Built

Part of Speech

Verb (past tense and past participle of "build")

Pronunciation

/bɪlt/

Definitions

1. (verb) Past tense and past participle of "build." Refers to the act of constructing or creating something, especially a structure or physical entity.

2. (adjective) Describing something that has been constructed or created through the act of building.

Usage Examples

1. "The house was built by a renowned architect."

2. "The statue was built to commemorate the victory."

Etymology

The word "built" originates from Old English "byldan," meaning to construct or make. "Built" is derived from the past tense of the verb "build," which has its roots in Germanic languages, particularly the Old Norse word "byggja" meaning to build or construct.

Synonyms

• Constructed
• Created
• Assembled
• Erected
• Fabricated

Antonyms

• Demolished
• Destroyed
• Dismantled

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "built" remains largely the same across different English dialects, with minimal variation in accents. For example, speakers in American English may pronounce it slightly more nasally compared to speakers in British English, but both still use the same basic phonetic sound /bɪlt/.

Historical Usage

The use of "built" dates back to Old English, evolving from the verb "byldan" which meant to construct. Historically, the term has been widely used in reference to construction and creation, especially in building architecture, infrastructure, and even metaphorically, as in the building of relationships, ideas, and systems. Its use continues to be relevant in both physical construction and figurative contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The word "built" carries significant cultural meaning, often symbolizing strength, endurance, and progress. In construction, buildings are often viewed as lasting representations of human achievement. In some cultures, the act of building and constructing something, whether a home or an entire city, holds deep symbolic value, representing the legacy or historical importance of a community or civilization.

More Information

The past tense and past participle form of "build," "built" is used in a variety of contexts, from architecture to figurative language. The act of building involves combining various materials and resources to create a stable structure. "Built" can describe anything from houses, roads, bridges, and skyscrapers to relationships, plans, and systems that have been carefully constructed over time. The term is central to the discourse of construction and development across multiple industries.