lead time

noun

: the time between the beginning of a process or project and the appearance of its results

Examples of lead time in a Sentence

We will need at least six months lead time before production begins.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pulling off a similar outcome for beef prices will be hard given the industry’s complex supply chain and the long lead time to replenish herds. Bloomberg Wire, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026 Pulling off a similar outcome for beef prices will be hard given the industry’s complex supply chain and the long lead time to replenish herds. Enda Curran, Fortune, 15 Feb. 2026 In addition to inter-hub transport benefits, the park is only 31 miles from Vizag Port, allowing BIAC to offer lead times that rival those from key sourcing destinations such as Chittagong and Shanghai. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 11 Feb. 2026 Both deals are expected to have long lead times to close. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lead time

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lead time was in 1944

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lead time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead%20time. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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