Construct

Definition

Construct is both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to build or assemble something, especially by putting together various parts. As a noun, it refers to an idea, theory, or concept created by the mind.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈstrʌkt/
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːnstrʌkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-STRUHKT
• Noun Respelling: KON-struct

British English

• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈstrʌkt/
• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒnstrʌkt/
• Verb Respelling: kuhn-STRUHKT
• Noun Respelling: KON-struct

Etymology

The word "construct" comes from the Latin "constructus," the past participle of "construere," meaning "to pile up" or "to build." The prefix "con-" means "together," and "struere" means "to pile up" or "to build." The term entered Middle English through Old French and has since taken on both literal and figurative meanings.

Derivatives

• Construction (noun)
• Constructive (adjective)
• Constructor (noun)
• Constructed (adjective)
• Reconstruct (verb)

Synonyms

• Build
• Form
• Assemble

Antonyms

• Demolish
• Destroy
• Disassemble

Usage

The term "construct" is used in both literal contexts, such as building structures, and figurative contexts, such as creating ideas or concepts. For example, "They plan to construct a new bridge," or "The theory is a social construct."

Related Terms

• Structure: Something that has been built or put together.
• Fabricate: To make or create something, especially by assembling parts.
• Concept: An abstract idea or mental construct.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To build or assemble by putting together parts: Refers to the act of creating something physical, like a building, by combining components.
  • Example: "The company plans to construct a new office downtown."
• To form by systematically arranging or combining parts: In an abstract sense, it refers to creating ideas, theories, or arguments.
  • Example: "The author constructed a compelling argument in her essay."

Noun

• An idea, theory, or concept: Refers to an abstract idea or a theoretical framework created by the mind.
  • Example: "Race is often considered a social construct."