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

Shorter lead times allow the retailer to get closer to the market and reduce the need to commit inventory so far in advance. — Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026

Planning became more reliable, lead times more predictable and buyers were finally able to focus on creating value instead of chasing information. — Davide Sartini, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026

The turf needs this lead time to absorb the nutrients before growth ceases in winter. — Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2026

Once a popular energy source, nuclear power plants took a back seat because of high initial costs and long lead times. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 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