builder

noun

build·​er ˈbil-dər 

1

: one that builds

especially : one that contracts to build and supervises building operations

2

: a substance added to or used with detergents to increase their cleansing action

Examples of builder in a Sentence

The architect discussed her plans with the builder and the contractor.

We will have to get the builders to repair the wall.

The army is said to be a character builder.

The experience was a real confidence builder.

Recent Examples on the Web

This home also demonstrates what can happen when a skilled builder decides to build a home for himself with long-term durability in mind. —James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026

Yeah, listen, so the president has done very well in his career as a builder and as a president. —ABC News, 3 May 2026

In the case of Sanlorenzo, the builder has just opened a new showroom in the center of London, meaning budding entrepreneurs can walk in off Mayfair’s Park Lane and sit down with a specialist to discuss buying their first yacht. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 2 May 2026

And on Saturday night at the Sea Crest Beach Resort in Falmouth, he will be inducted into the Massachusetts Hockey Hall of Fame with a stellar class that includes former Bruins and Massachusetts natives Jay Miller, Mike Mottau, former Northeastern coach Jim Madigan and builder Larue Renfro. —Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 2 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bilder, buyldere, from bilden, buylden "to build entry 1" + -er, -ere -er entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing builder

• world-builder

Rhymes for builder

• gilder
• guilder
• bewilder
• shipbuilder

Kids Definition

builder

noun

build·​er ˈbil-dər 

: one that builds

especially : a person whose business is the construction of buildings