buildup

Or build-up

[bild-uhp]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of buildup¹

1925–30, noun use of verb phrase build up

Example Sentences

The buildup reportedly includes more than a half-dozen warships, including at least one submarine, and thousands of Marines and sailors.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet at the same time Paramount embarks on this multibillion-dollar content buildup, it is also slashing costs closer to home.

From Los Angeles Times

"The main contributor to the marine heatwaves around the UK is the buildup of heat in the ocean," said Dr Caroline Rowland, head of oceans, cryosphere and climate change at the Met Office.

From BBC

This stops the stress hormone and lactic acid buildup that can hurt flavor and texture when fish are left to asphyxiate.

From Los Angeles Times

Each death is given a satisfying buildup; she’s a skilled hook-tease.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• enlargement 
• escalation 
• expansion 
• growth 
• stockpile