Erect

Definition

Erect refers to the action of building or constructing something in an upright position. It can also describe the state of being upright or standing straight.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈrɛkt/
• Respelling: ih-REKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈrɛkt/
• Respelling: ih-REKT

The pronunciation of "erect" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "erect" comes from the Latin word "erectus," the past participle of "erigere," which means "to set up" or "to raise." This term is formed by combining "ex-" meaning "out" and "regere" meaning "to guide" or "to direct."

Derivatives

• Erection (noun)
• Erector (noun)
• Reerect (verb)
• Erectable (adjective)
• Upright (synonym, adjective)

Synonyms

• Build
• Construct
• Raise

Antonyms

• Demolish
• Flatten
• Lower

Usage

The word "erect" is often used in construction, architecture, and everyday language to describe the act of building or standing something upright. It is also used to refer to the posture of a person or an object that is upright and firm.

Related Terms

• Construct: To build or form by putting together parts.
• Assemble: To fit together the separate component parts of something.
• Stand: To be in or rise to an upright position on the feet.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To build or put something up in an upright position: Refers to the act of constructing something so that it stands upright.
  • Example: "The workers erected the scaffolding around the building."
• To cause to stand up straight: Refers to making something or someone stand or rise upright.
  • Example: "He erected the flagpole in the center of the courtyard."

Adjective

• Upright in position or posture: Describes something that is standing straight or vertical.
  • Example: "The statue stood erect in the park."
• Firm and rigid: Refers to something that is solidly upright and not bent or slouched.
  • Example: "She maintained an erect posture while giving the speech."