lead time

noun

ˈlēd- 

: 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

Facilitating that requires some additional lead time for print production. — Brian Welk, IndieWire, 15 July 2026

The latest investment will enable the company, with 9,100 employees, to construct two new buildings to expand manufacturing and testing capacity, improve operational efficiency, reduce lead times, and support future growth. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 11 July 2026

With a later launch, iOS 27 has a longer lead time, which can make for a more stable out-of-the-box experience. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Management can, in turn, control its supply chain more closely, expand production capacity, and improve lead times without having to navigate a joint-venture board. — Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for lead time

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• enzyme
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime