Erect
/ɪˈrekt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo construct or build something, typically a structure.
/ɪˈrekt/
To construct or build something.
They decided to erect a statue in the town square.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a Lego castle. To erect something is like putting the pieces together to make it stand up tall!
👶 For kids: To build something, like a house or a statue.
More Examples
The engineers will erect the bridge over the river next month.
How It's Used
"The company erected a new skyscraper in the city center."
"Soldiers erected the tents for their overnight stay."
To set something upright; cause something to stand up.
/ɪˈrekt/
To set something upright.
The dog erected its ears when it heard a sound.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to make your toy soldier stand up straight. That's like erecting it!
👶 For kids: To make something stand up.
More Examples
He erected the tent quickly.
How It's Used
"The patient was unable to erect his back without pain."
"He had to erect his mental shields against the harsh criticism."
Straight up or upright; vertical.
/ɪˈrekt/
Straight up.
The soldiers stood erect during the ceremony.
💡 Simply: Think about standing up straight, with your back not bent. That's erect!
👶 For kids: Standing up straight.
More Examples
The tree has an erect posture.
How It's Used
"The doctor noticed that the patient's spine was erect."
"He stood erect with pride at his accomplishments."
From Latin *ērectus*, past participle of *ērigere* 'to raise up, construct', from *ex-* 'out' + *regere* 'to direct, rule'.
The word "erect" has been used in the English language since the 15th century, initially to describe physical structures.
Memory tip
Think of a builder erecting a building, piece by piece.
Word Origin
"To raise up or build"