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

The team also found better muscle endurance and less fat buildup in the liver.

From Science Daily

Their goal was to determine if interfering with these signals could help prevent plaque buildup and support a healthier oral microbiome.

From Science Daily

It also said he led Hamas’s force buildup and that he “was directly responsible for violations of the cease-fire agreement” by Hamas.

From The Wall Street Journal

The U.S. has recently mounted the largest military buildup the region has seen in decades, sinking more than 20 alleged drug-smuggling vessels.

From The Wall Street Journal

Among U.S. allies, there has been a push to boost shipbuilding capacity amid concerns about the naval buildup by China.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• enlargement
• escalation
• expansion
• growth
• stockpile