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 election happened amid a US military buildup in the Caribbean where it has deployed the world's largest aircraft carrier, officially to tackle drug smuggling from Venezuela into the United States.

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These conditions are driven by harmful buildups in the brain made of misfolded amyloid proteins.

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Over time, this buildup of stress can accelerate cognitive decline and raise the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease.

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High above, cloud particles may undergo similar cycles of charge buildup and release.

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This process relies on astrocytes, star shaped support cells, which can be guided to clear out the toxic plaque buildup commonly seen in Alzheimer's.

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Related Words

• enlargement 
• escalation 
• expansion 
• growth 
• stockpile