Building

/ˈbɪldɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A structure with a roof and walls, such as a house, school, or office, that is built for human habitation or use.
The new office building was completed ahead of schedule.
The act or process of constructing something.
The building of the bridge took several years.
A specific type of construction with a particular purpose.
The science building on campus houses the chemistry and biology labs.
verb
To construct or create something by putting together various elements.
They are building a new library in the town center.

Etymology

From Old English 'bylding', from 'byldan', meaning to build.

Common Phrases and Expressions

building block
A basic component of a larger system.
building site
A location where construction is taking place.
building permit
An official approval to start construction work.

Related Words

architect
A person who designs buildings.
contractor
A person or firm that undertakes a contract to provide materials or labor for construction.
infrastructure
The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society.

Slang Meanings

Dirty work or difficult task.
Doing the building on that project is going to be tough.
A place to hang out.
Let's hit up that new building downtown.