develop

de-vel-op · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To grow or cause to grow more mature, advanced, or elaborate.

  2. 2.

    To create or produce, especially over time.

  3. 3.

    To start to have or experience something.

  4. 4.

    To process photographic film to make images visible.

  5. 5.

    To build on or change the use of land.

Related words

Antonyms: decline, regress, stagnate
See also: development, evolve, grow
Synonyms: advance, create, evolve, grow

Etymology

From French developper, from Old French desveloper meaning "to unwrap, unfurl," composed of des- meaning "un-" and a root possibly related to wrapping. The sense evolved from "unfolding" to "bringing out latent possibilities."