buildup

1 of 2

noun

build·​up ˈbild-ˌəp 

1

: something produced by building up

fluid buildup in the lungs

2

: the act or process of building up

build up

2 of 2

verb

built up; building up; builds up

transitive verb

1

: to develop gradually by increments

building up endurance

built up a library

2

: to promote the health, strength, esteem, or reputation of

intransitive verb

: to accumulate or develop appreciably

builder-upper

ˈbil-dər-ˈə-pər 

noun

Synonyms of buildup

Verb

• increase
• rise
• accelerate
• swell
• expand
• climb
• roll up

Examples of buildup in a Sentence

Noun

There is a big traffic buildup on the highway.

You should clean the mechanism regularly to prevent buildup of dirt.

Both players were given big buildups before the game.

Verb

static electricity built up on the cat's fur

the roller coaster built up momentum

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The acquisitions were the signal The buildup has run for over a year. —Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

After years of buildup, the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially begins Thursday when Mexico takes on South Africa in the inaugural match of the event. —Kellis Robinett, Kansas City Star, 11 June 2026

Verb

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 12 June 2026

Pride celebrations also continue, building up to next week’s parade and street festival, including a family day at Glen Echo Park and late-night dance parties. —Fritz Hahn, Washington Post, 11 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1555, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for buildup

• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup
• markup
• pickup

Kids Definition

buildup

noun

build·​up ˈbil-ˌdəp 

1

: something produced by building up

2

: the act or process of building up