buildup

American  

[bild-uhp] / ˈbɪldˌʌp /

Or build-up

noun

1. a building up, as of military forces; increase in amount or number.

2. a process of growth; strengthening; development.

   the buildup of heavy industry.

3. an accumulation, as of a particular type of material.

   a buildup of salt deposits.

4. an increase, as in potential, intensity, or pressure.

   A buildup of suspense began halfway through the movie.

5. a progressive or sequential development.

   the buildup of helium atoms from hydrogen.

6. praise or publicity designed to enhance a reputation or popularize someone or something.

   The studio spent $100,000 on the new star's buildup.

7. a process of preparation designed to make possible the achievement of an ultimate objective.

   a lengthy buildup to a sales pitch.

8. encouragement; a psychological lift.

   Every time I need a buildup, I look at her picture.

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Etymology

Origin of buildup

1925–30, noun use of verb phrase build up

Example Sentences

China’s unprecedented military buildup demonstrates the military maxim that quantity has a quality all its own.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

While scientists know these systems can erupt again, the buildup to such events remains poorly understood.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

That’s relatively common in figure skating for gold medal winners who face a rush of media and commercial opportunities after a grueling four-year Olympic buildup.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

The troop buildup could give the U.S. added leverage while preparing for more decisive action if diplomacy stalls, current and former officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

As the storm continued, a large buildup of ice on the sea anchor’s rope had kept the line swinging and sawing against the stern.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

Related Words

• enlargement
• escalation
• expansion
• growth
• stockpile