/ ɪˈrekt; NAmE / adjective , verb
■ adjective
1.
( formal ) in a vertical position
SYN straight :
Stand with your arms by your side and your head erect.
2.
( of the penis or nipples ) larger than usual, stiff and standing up because of sexual excitement
■ verb [ vn ] ( formal )
1.
to build sth :
The church was erected in 1582.
➡ note at build
2.
to put sth in position and make it stand vertical
SYN put sth up :
Police had to erect barriers to keep crowds back.
to erect a tent
➡ note at build
3.
to create or establish sth :
to erect trade barriers
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Latin erect- set up, from the verb erigere , from e- (variant of ex- ) out + regere to direct.