ENGLISH
REFERENCE

build

v. · n.
US //ˈbɪɫd// UK //bˈɪld// build
Irregular verb past built past participle built
  1. 1 to construct (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to make something by putting parts or materials together.

    to construct a physical structure by combining materials or components.

    Example

    They are going to build a new library in the center of town.

    Example

    The developers plan to build a sustainable residential complex using recycled materials and energy-efficient technologies.

    Usage

    Often used with 'out of' or 'from' to describe materials.
  2. 2 to develop or increase (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to make something stronger or bigger over time.

    to increase or strengthen something through a gradual process of addition or development.

    Example

    You need to exercise regularly to build your muscles.

    Example

    The startup worked hard to build a loyal customer base before expanding into international markets.

    Usage

    Commonly used with abstract nouns like 'reputation', 'confidence', or 'momentum'.
Show 4 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 to create software (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    to turn computer code into a working program.

    to convert source code into a standalone software artefact that can be run on a computer.

    Example

    The team needs to build the latest version of the app before testing it.

    Example

    Automated scripts build the project every night to ensure that new code changes do not break the existing functionality.
  2. 4 body shape (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the size and shape of a person's body.

    the physical proportions or constitution of a human body.

    Example

    The suspect was described as a tall man with a slim build.

    Example

    His athletic build made him a natural choice for the rowing team, as he possessed both the reach and the power required.
  3. 5 software version (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a specific version of a computer program while it is being made.

    a particular version of a software product, often identified by a number, produced during the development cycle.

    Example

    We are currently testing the alpha build of the new game.

    Example

    The developers released a stable build to the public after fixing the critical bugs found in the previous beta version.
  4. 6 gaming character setup (n.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    the specific set of skills and items you choose for a character in a video game.

    the specific combination of equipment, statistics, and abilities chosen for a player character in a role-playing or strategy game.

    Example

    I am trying a new build that focuses on speed rather than strength.

    Example

    The community forums are full of players debating the most effective build for defeating the final boss on the hardest difficulty.
Origin

Etymology tree Proto-West Germanic *buþlijan Old English bytlan Middle English bylden English build From Middle English bilden, bulden, bylden, from Old English byldan and bytlan, bytlian (“to build”), from Proto-West Germanic buþlijan (“to build”), from Proto-Germanic buþlą, bōþlą (“house, dwelling, farm”), from Proto-Indo-European bʰuH- (“to become, grow, thrive, be, live, dwell”). Related to Old English botl (“building, house”). More at bottle.

Word family
Idioms8 entries

© 2026 English Reference