developer
UK: dɪˈveləpə | US: dɪˈveləpər
n. a person or thing that develops something, especially software or land
n. a chemical agent used in photographic processing
n. (obsolete) one who unfolds or reveals something
The word "developer" traces back to the idea of "unfolding" or "unwrapping" potential. Originally used for physical unfolding (e.g., land development), it later expanded to abstract growth (e.g., software development). The suffix "-er" solidifies its role as an agent noun, marking the doer of the action.
The software developer fixed the bug overnight.
He works as a real estate developer in urban areas.
Photographic developers must work in darkrooms.
The city hired a developer to revitalize the waterfront.
Early books described prophets as "developers" of divine truths.