gain the lead
phrase
: to take the winning position in a race or competition
Her car has gained the lead.
Our team gained the lead in the eighth inning.
—often used figurativelyTheir company has gained the lead in developing this new technology.
Cite this Entry
“Gain the lead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gain%20the%20lead. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.
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