ENGLISH
REFERENCE

built

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈbɪɫt// UK //bˈɪlt// built Archaic Informal

v. having a strong, muscular body. You use this to describe someone who looks like they spend a lot of time at the gym.

v. possessing a muscular or well-developed physique. Informal in register; typically describes a person with significant muscle mass rather than just a lean frame.


SIMPLE

He has become really built since he started lifting weights.

CONTEXTUAL

The actor spent six months training with a professional athlete to look built for his role as a superhero.

COMPLEX

While his brother was naturally lanky, he was remarkably built, with broad shoulders and powerful arms that suggested years of dedicated physical labor.

Synonyms
Usage

Often follows a linking verb like 'is' or 'looks'.

Idioms5 entries

© 2026 English Reference