build
UK[bɪld]US[bɪld]
v
To make something by putting parts or materials together.
v
To develop something, such as a business, relationship, or system, gradually.
n
The physical form or shape of someone's body.
Etymology
The verb 'build' originates from the Old English 'byldan', meaning 'to construct a house', which itself is derived from 'bold', meaning 'house' or 'dwelling'. This Old English term traces back to the Proto-Germanic 'buthla-', also meaning 'house' or 'dwelling place'. The core semantic thread from its ancient roots to modern usage is the concept of constructing a place to live, which broadened over time to encompass the creation or development of any physical structure or abstract entity. The shift from the specific notion of house-building to general construction illustrates a classic process of semantic generalization in the history of the English language.
Analysis
The word 'build' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a whole lexical unit.
Examples
They plan to build a new school in the community.
It takes years to build trust in a relationship.
He has a powerful build from years of athletic training.