built-up

[ bilt-uhp ]

adjective

1. built by the fastening together of several parts or enlarged by the addition of layers:

   This shoe has a built-up heel.

2. (of an area) filled in with houses, as an urban region.

built-up

adjective

1. having many buildings (esp in the phrase built-up area )
2. denoting a beam, girder, or stanchion constructed of sections welded, riveted, or bolted together, etc
3. increased by the addition of parts

   built-up heels

Word History and Origins

Origin of built-up¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

In 1987, Mr Reid moved south of the border to the Cork Examiner, where he built up good contacts with Irish politicians.

From BBC

Lots of people are still struggling to pay back debts that built up over the last few years.

From BBC

Beijing has already built up alliances with emerging economies.

From BBC

Few believe this may come to pass as, under the mutual-destruction doctrine established during the Cold War when nuclear arsenals were built up, Putin knows their use would bring untold suffering to all, including Russians.

From BBC

He then doubled down on his message as he insisted it endangered the culture former manager Gareth Southgate had built up during his eights years in charge, when it became a pleasure to play for the country again.

From BBC

Related Words

• add to
• boost
• develop
• enhance
• expand
• fortify
• improve
• increase
• intensify
• promote
• reinforce
• strengthen