Development Meaning and Definition
Development
Pronunciation
/ˈdɛvələpmənt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A process of growth, improvement, or expansion, especially in terms of complex systems, structures, or ideas.
Examples
- The company focused on the development of new products.
- The skills she developed over the years allowed her to take on new challenges.
Synonyms
- Growth
- Expansion
- Maturity
Antonyms
- Decline
- Stagnation
- Impediment
Etymology
The word development comes from the Old French word “development”, meaning “unfolding” or “growth”, which in turn comes from the Latin words “devehementem” meaning “unfolding” and “vita” meaning “life”.
Usage Notes
Development can refer to a wide range of complex systems, structures, or ideas, and can be used in various contexts such as professional, personal, or theoretical.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the concept of development is often referenced in the context of personal growth, such as in self-help books, personal development courses, or motivational speeches.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- On the development of a new idea
- To develop a skill
Related Words or Phrases
- Evolution
- Maturity
- Progress
Collocations
- Personal development
- Brain development
- Financial development
Frequency of Use
Development is a commonly used term in a wide range of contexts, from professional and personal to theoretical and scientific.
Common Misspellings
- Devolvement
- Develope