v. & n.
--v.tr. (past and past. part. built)
1. a construct (a house, vehicle, fire, road, model, etc.) by putting parts or material together. b commission, finance, and oversee the building of (the council has built two new schools).
2 (often foll. by up) establish, develop, make, or accumulate gradually (built the business up from nothing); (often foll. by on); base (hopes, theories, etc.) (ideas built on a false foundation).
3 (as built adj.) having a specified build (sturdily built; brick-built).
--n.
1. the proportions of esp. the human body (a slim build).
2 a style of construction; a make (build of his suit was pre-war).
Phrases and idioms:
build in incorporate as part of a structure. build in (or round or up) surround with houses etc.; block up. build on add (an extension etc.). build up 1 increase in size or strength.
2 praise; boost.
3 gradually become established.
build-up n.
1. a favourable description in advance; publicity.
2 a gradual approach to a climax or maximum (the build-up was slow but sure).
built-in
1. forming an integral part of a structure.
2 forming an integral part of a person's character (built-in integrity). built on sand unstable.
built-up
1. (of a locality) densely covered by houses etc.
2 increased in height etc. by the addition of parts.
3 composed of separately prepared parts.
Etymology: OE byldan f. bold dwelling f. Gmc: cf. BOWER(1), BOOTH