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

Guam’s political leaders say they support the buildup plans overall, pointing to economic benefits and geopolitical reality.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The boat strikes have occurred amid the biggest U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean in decades.

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Still, a buildup bulges outside of the golf course, as security holds fans at the entrance.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean is the largest in the region in more than three decades, since the American invasion of Panama.

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The Navy buildup in the Caribbean points to something more than drug interdiction at sea.

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Related Words

• enlargement 
• escalation 
• expansion 
• growth 
• stockpile