I. ˈbild verb
( built ˈbilt ; build·ing )
Etymology: Middle English bilden, from Old English byldan; akin to Old English būan to dwell — more at bower
Date: before 12th century
transitive verb
1. : to form by ordering and uniting materials by gradual means into a composite whole : construct
2. : to cause to be constructed
3. : to develop according to a systematic plan, by a definite process, or on a particular base
4. : increase , enlarge
intransitive verb
1. : to engage in building
2.
a. : to progress toward a peak (as of intensity)
build to a climax
b. : to develop in extent
a crowd build ing
•
- build a fire under
- build into
- build on
II. noun
Date: 1667
: form or mode of structure : make ; especially : bodily conformation of a person or animal