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

Flanigan cautions against the downsides of starting a major kitchen or primary bath overhaul in January due to long lead times, material delays, and significant downtime. —Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 14 Jan. 2026

Additionally, mills are concerned about how shipping routes and freight costs could be impacted by geopolitical tensions and climate events, affecting lead times and landed cost. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 6 Jan. 2026

For instance, the retailer said that when baggy leopard-print jeans started trending last year, Universal Thread was able to tape into the company’s denim reserves and quickly launch the style, with a lead time cut by 25 percent. —Evan Clark, Footwear News, 22 Dec. 2025

This long lead time has made the supply unpredictable, putting constant pressure on Christmas tree wholesale prices. —Ali Besharat, Fortune, 16 Dec. 2025

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