Development

Definition

Development is a noun that refers to the process of growth, progress, or evolution in various contexts, such as personal, technological, or economic. It can describe both the act of developing and the state of being developed.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvɛləpmənt/
• Respelling: dih-VEL-uhp-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvɛləpmənt/
• Respelling: dih-VEL-up-muhnt

Etymology

The word "development" originates from the French "développement," which comes from the Old French "desveloper," meaning "to unwrap or unfold." It is derived from Latin "voloper" (to wrap) and entered English in the 18th century, acquiring the meaning of growth or progression over time.

Derivatives

• Develop (verb)
• Developer (noun)
• Developing (adjective)
• Underdeveloped (adjective)
• Developmental (adjective)

Synonyms

• Progress
• Growth
• Advancement

Antonyms

• Stagnation
• Decline
• Regression

Usage

The noun "development" is used in contexts that discuss growth, change, or creation. For example, "The development of new technology has transformed industries." It is widely applied across fields such as economics, education, psychology, and urban planning.

Related Terms

• Innovation: The act or process of creating something new.
• Evolution: The gradual progression or adaptation over time.
• Improvement: A positive change or advancement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The process of growth or progress: Refers to a gradual progression toward maturity or improvement.
  • Example: "Childhood development involves physical and mental growth."
• The creation or expansion of something: Describes the act of creating, constructing, or expanding, especially in terms of projects or structures.
  • Example: "The city approved the development of a new residential area."
• A newly created or recent event or situation: Often used to describe an emerging fact or condition.
  • Example: "The latest development in the case was reported in the news."