front-loaded; front-loading; front-loads
1
: to organize (something, such as a process or project) so that a specified element is concentrated in the early stages or positioned prominently
Many of the programs are geared toward preschoolers, in part because of a desire to front-load a child's life with meaningful experiences in nature.—Tribune News Service
… the family front-loads meals with protein.—Wendy Grossman Kantor
—often used in passive constructionsThis year's home schedule is front-loaded with 12 games before the Japan trip and five after the Cubs return to Mesa.—Paul Sullivan
Every generation discovers that having and raising children is front-loaded with joy but also fraught with tension, confusion and messiness of all stripes, even when you've got an older generation backing you up …—Guy Davis
sometimes, specifically, finance
: to assign costs or benefits to the early stages of something, such as a contract, project, or time period
Mortgage payments are also front-loaded with interest, often as high as 80% during the first few years of the loan. —Mike Winters
Most of those costs need to be front-loaded. —Peter Cappelli
2
: to fill or load (something) via the front
Cargo could be front-loaded through a hinged nose.—Clive Irving
variants
or front-load
or less commonly front loading
or front-loading
: accessed from the front rather than top
a front load/front-load washing machine
a front loading kiln/tray
Stack your front-loading washer and dryer to create more space. Or place them side by side underneath a counter so you have room to work and fold clothes.—Lori Fazari
Cite this Entry
“Front-load.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/front-load. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
