in the pipeline

1. In process, under way, as in The blueprints for the new machine are in the pipeline, but it will take months to get approval . [ Colloquial ; 1940s] Also see in the works .

2. Budgeted for something but not yet spent, as in There's $5 million more in the pipeline for the city schools . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1900s]

Example Sentences

The next morning, Dermish noticed new gas flares, presumably lit to release pressure in the pipeline network by burning excess gas.

From Salon

There must be things in the pipeline that I guess you think could go one way or another.

From BBC

He said they had "lots of great things" in the pipeline but would not confirm what they were.

From BBC

And there are plenty of other foreign nationals in the pipeline.

From Salon

As well as Big Man, Stormzy also announced other film projects in the pipeline.

From BBC