Erect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏗️

Add to dictionary

erect

[ɪˈrɛkt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

construction

To build, construct, or establish something in an upright position.

Synonyms

build, construct, establish, raise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
erect	To describe building something tall or upright, often used in formal or technical contexts, especially with statues, poles, or structures. They plan to erect a new statue in the park. The engineers will erect the new cell tower by the end of the month.
build	To describe creating or assembling something, generally from the ground up, used in both formal and informal contexts for various types of structures or organizations. They decided to build a new house in the countryside. We need to build a solid team to complete this project.
raise	To describe lifting something to a higher position, but can also imply causing something to increase or rise, used in both literal and figurative senses. They raised the flag on the Fourth of July. She raised her hand to ask a question.
construct	To describe creating something with a clear plan and structure, often used in formal contexts for large or complex projects. The company will construct a new bridge over the river. It took years to construct the new stadium.
establish	To describe setting up something such as an organization, system, or institution with a sense of foundation or permanence. They established a new charity to help the homeless. The company plans to establish a presence in Europe by next year.

Examples of usage

The workers were instructed to erect the scaffolding before starting the construction work.
They decided to erect a monument in memory of the fallen soldiers.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

physiological

To cause a part of the body to become rigid and upright.

Synonyms

perk up, raise, stiffen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
erect	This can also mean standing or sitting up with the back straight and the head up, often used in the context of posture or animal behavior. She sat erect in her chair, listening intently
raise	This is appropriate for describing the action of lifting something to a higher position or increasing the level of something, often in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Please raise your hand if you have a question The new policy will raise the minimum wage
stiffen	Use this when referring to something becoming rigid or less flexible, often used in contexts related to physical reactions or material properties. His body stiffened in fear The fabric will stiffen when it gets wet
perk up	Use this when talking about someone or something becoming more lively or cheerful, usually in informal settings. She perked up after hearing the good news

Examples of usage

The dog erected its ears when it heard a noise outside.
The cat erected its fur in response to feeling threatened.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

physiological

Of a bodily organ or part stiff and rigid.

Synonyms

rigid, stiff, upright.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
erect	Used to describe something that has been built or constructed, or to describe the action of standing or placing something in an upright position. The workers erected a new building in the city center. She tried to erect the tent by herself.
upright	Used to describe something that is standing straight up. It can describe posture, objects, or even someone's moral integrity. The vase was placed in an upright position on the table. She is an upright citizen known for her honesty.
stiff	Applicable when describing something that is firm, difficult to bend, or move, and can also refer to people feeling a physical stiffness in their bodies. Can have a slightly negative connotation if referring to people or movements. After working all day in the garden, his back was stiff. The cardboard was too stiff to fold properly.
rigid	Used to describe something that is inflexible, unbending, or strict. Often used for materials that are hard and do not bend, or rules and systems that are difficult to change. The board insisted on a rigid adherence to the rules. The materials used in the construction are extremely rigid.

Examples of usage

He experienced an erect posture while standing straight.
The erect hairs on his arm indicated his surprise.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

In architecture, the term is often used to describe the process of constructing vertical elements, such as walls and frameworks.
Many ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, erected monumental structures that showcased their cultural values and beliefs.
Modern skyscrapers are engineered to remain erect despite the forces of wind and gravity, showcasing advanced building techniques.

Biology

In the context of biology, 'erect' often refers to the state of an organism standing up or being vertical, which can be crucial for certain life functions.
Plants exhibit erect growth patterns to maximize sunlight exposure, enabling photosynthesis and better overall health.
In animals, an erect posture is often associated with alertness or readiness, influenced by environmental stimuli.

Psychology

Erect postures in humans can convey confidence and assertiveness, impacting social interactions and self-perception.
Some studies suggest that adopting an erect posture may affect mood and energy levels due to the body's alignment influencing mental states.
Body language experts describe erect posture as a sign of engagement, showing that an individual is attentive and involved in their surroundings.

Art

In various art forms, such as sculpture and painting, depicting figures in erect poses can symbolize strength, pride, or vitality.
Artists throughout history have often chosen to portray their subjects in an erect manner to emphasize their importance or nobility.
Erect forms in abstract art can create tension and dynamism, drawing the viewer's eye and evoking emotional responses.

Origin of 'erect'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Latin 'erigere,' which means 'to raise or erect.'
In the 14th century, 'erect' was used to describe the physical act of raising structures or objects.
The prefix 'e-' in Latin suggests a process of movement upward, enhancing the concept of standing tall.

The word 'erect' originated from the Latin word 'erigere', meaning 'to raise up' or 'to set up'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century with the same meaning of 'to build or construct'. Over time, the word has also been associated with the physiological sense of being stiff or rigid, expanding its usage in various contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,150 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
5147 participated
5148 convert
5149 indications
5150 erect
5151 recipient
5152 derive
5153 symbolic
...