development

views updated

de·vel·op·ment / diˈveləpmənt/ • n. 1. the process of developing or being developed: she traces the development of the novel | the development of less invasive treatment. ∎  a specified state of growth or advancement: the wings attain their full development several hours after birth. ∎  a new and refined product or idea: the latest developments in information technology. ∎  an event constituting a new stage in a changing situation: I don't think there have been any new developments since yesterday. ∎  the process of converting land to a new purpose by constructing buildings or making use of its resources: land suitable for development. ∎  an area of land with new buildings on it: a major housing development in Chicago. ∎  Chess the process of bringing one's pieces into play in the opening phase of a game.2. the process of starting to experience or suffer from an ailment or feeling: the development of brittle bones.3. the process of treating photographic film with chemicals to make a visible image.

More From encyclopedia.com

About this article

development

Updated About encyclopedia.com content Print Article

Related Content

NEARBY TERMS

development