— buildable , adj.
/bild/ , v. , built or ( Archaic ) builded; building; n.
v.t.
1. to construct (esp. something complex) by assembling and joining parts or materials: to build a house.
2. to establish, increase, or strengthen (often fol. by up ): to build a business; to build up one's hopes.
3. to mold, form, or create: to build boys into men.
4. to base; found: a relationship built on trust.
5. Games.
a. to make (words) from letters.
b. to assemble (cards) according to number, suit, etc., as in melding.
v.i.
6. to engage in the art, practice, or business of building.
7. to form or construct a plan, system of thought, etc. (usually fol. by on or upon ): He built on the philosophies of the past.
8. to increase or develop toward a maximum, as of intensity, tempo, or magnitude (often fol. by up ): The drama builds steadily toward a climax.
9. build in or into , to build or incorporate as part of something else: to build in bookcases between the windows; an allowance for travel expenses built into the budget.
10. build up ,
a. to develop or increase: to build up a bank account.
b. to strengthen.
c. to prepare in stages.
d. to fill in with houses; develop into an urban area.
e. to praise or flatter.
n.
11. the physical structure, esp. of a person; physique; figure: He had a strong build.
12. the manner or form of construction: The house was of modern build.
13. Masonry.
a. a vertical joint.
b. the vertical dimension of a stone laid on its bed.
[ bef. 1150; ME bilden, OE byldan, deriv. of bold, var. of botl dwelling, house ]