gebouwde

Gebouwde is a Dutch word that functions as the past participle of bouwen (to build) used as an adjective meaning built or constructed. In contemporary usage it most often appears before a noun to describe something that has been created through construction, such as buildings or structures.

Etymology and form: The base verb is bouwen and its past participle is gebouwd. When used attributively before a noun, the form becomes gebouwde, typically written with an -e ending in line with Dutch adjective inflection rules. The same word can appear in fixed terms or compound expressions related to construction, architecture, and planning. In predicative or compound tenses, the past participle remains gebouwd (for example in is gebouwd).

Usage: Gebouwde is common in contexts related to construction, urban planning, and real estate. It is frequently found in phrases describing the built environment, architectural work, or any object that has been erected. The term helps distinguish between something that exists as a result of construction and its prior state or design.

Examples: De gebouwde omgeving refers to the built environment. Een gebouwde brug is a bridge that has been constructed. In sentences about history or heritage, one might discuss gebouwen en gebouwd erfgoed, emphasizing construction rather than form or design alone.

Notes: Gebouwde should not be confused with nouns like gebouw (building) or with the simple past participle gebouwd used in passive constructions or perfect tenses, such as Het huis is gebouwd. The adjective vormgeving follows standard Dutch rules for attributive adjectives, including agreement in number and definiteness.

See also: bouwen, gebouwd, gebouw, gebouwde omgeving, architectuur, urbanisme.