Developed
/dɪˈveləpt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo grow or improve something, or to become more complex or advanced.
/dɪˈveləpt/
To grow or cause to grow and become more mature, advanced, or elaborate.
The city developed a new public transportation system.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building something, like a Lego castle. 'Developed' means you've made it bigger and better. Or, like learning a skill, you're developed your ability to play the guitar.
👶 For kids: To grow or get better, like when a baby grows into a big kid!
More Examples
Over time, the project developed into something much larger than expected.
He developed a strong interest in history after visiting the museum.
How It's Used
"The company developed a new marketing strategy."
"The scientist developed a new vaccine."
"She developed a passion for painting."
To elaborate on an idea or create something new, often through planning or work.
/dɪˈveləpt/
To create something new or to elaborate on an idea.
The team developed a revolutionary new technology.
💡 Simply: If you're working on a school project, and you're adding details, like a super hero or a world-class inventor. You are developing it, like a great story, or a really cool invention
👶 For kids: To make or create something new, like drawing a picture and adding more details to it.
More Examples
The author spent years developing her characters.
The company is developing plans to expand into new markets.
How It's Used
"They developed a new software application."
"She developed the plot of her novel over several months."
"The government is developing a new policy on climate change."
Having reached an advanced stage, state, or condition.
/dɪˈveləpt/
Having attained a specified stage or condition.
She had a well-developed sense of humor.
💡 Simply: If you have developed a skill, like playing basketball, you are much better at it than when you started!
👶 For kids: When something is all grown up or finished, like a plant or a game!
More Examples
The city has a highly developed infrastructure.
The company has developed a sophisticated system for managing data.
How It's Used
"A developed sense of empathy."
"A developed muscle structure."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English *developpen*, from Old French *développer* (“to unwrap, unfold”), from *des-* (expressing reversal) + *voloper* (“to wrap”).
The word 'develop' has been used since the late 17th century, initially meaning 'to unfold or expand'. Its meaning has evolved alongside technological and social advancements.
Memory tip
Think of a seed that develops into a plant - it grows and changes.
Word Origin
"to unwrap, unfold"