# build

/ˈbɪɫd/ (US) · /bˈɪld/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/build
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. to construct

verb · CEFR A1

to make something by putting parts or materials together.

For teachers: to construct a physical structure by combining materials or components.

- They are going to build a new library in the center of town.
- 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. to develop or increase

verb · CEFR B1

to make something stronger or bigger over time.

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

- You need to exercise regularly to build your muscles.
- 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'.

### 3. to create software

verb · CEFR B2 · Technical

to turn computer code into a working program.

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

- The team needs to build the latest version of the app before testing it.
- Automated scripts build the project every night to ensure that new code changes do not break the existing functionality.

### 4. body shape

noun · CEFR B1

the size and shape of a person's body.

For teachers: the physical proportions or constitution of a human body.

- The suspect was described as a tall man with a slim build.
- His athletic build made him a natural choice for the rowing team, as he possessed both the reach and the power required.

### 5. software version

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

- We are currently testing the alpha build of the new game.
- The developers released a stable build to the public after fixing the critical bugs found in the previous beta version.

### 6. gaming character setup

noun · CEFR C1 · Slang · Informal

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

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

- I am trying a new build that focuses on speed rather than strength.
- The community forums are full of players debating the most effective build for defeating the final boss on the hardest difficulty.

## Examples

- They plan to build a new house next year.
- The engineering team worked for months to build a secure platform that could handle millions of users.
- While it is easy to build a basic prototype, creating a scalable architecture requires a deep understanding of how different software components interact under heavy load.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.