Dictionary
build
Pronunciation: (bild), [key]
—v., built or (Archaic) build•ed; build•ing;
—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.
1. to engage in the art, practice, or business of building.
2. to form or construct a plan, system of thought, etc. (usually fol. by
on or
upon):
He built on the philosophies of the past.
3. to increase or develop toward a maximum, as of intensity, tempo, or magnitude (often fol. by
up):
The drama builds steadily toward a climax.
4. 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.
5. 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.
1. the physical structure, esp. of a person; physique; figure:
He had a strong build.
2. the manner or form of construction:
The house was of modern build.
3. Masonry.
a. a vertical joint.
b. the vertical dimension of a stone laid on its bed.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
