build up

verb

1. enlarge, develop, or increase by degrees or in stages

   verb.change

   Examples

   Build up your savings.

   Source: WordNet 3.0

2. form or accumulate steadily

   verb.change

   Synonyms build progress work up

   Source: WordNet 3.0

3. prepare oneself for a military confrontation

   verb.competition

   Synonyms arm fortify gird

   Antonyms demilitarise demilitarize disarm

   Source: WordNet 3.0

4. bolster or strengthen

   verb.change

   Examples

   Build up confidence.

   Synonyms build ramp up work up

   Source: WordNet 3.0

5. change the use of and make available or usable

   verb.change

   Synonyms develop

   Source: WordNet 3.0