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.
Though that makes launch lead times unpredictable, Trottier said to expect more innovations to come next year. James Manso, Footwear News, 21 Oct. 2025 Fallon began his persistent efforts about a year prior to the show’s debut, as he had been tapped by Lorne Michaels to assume the role with a long amount of lead time. Devon Ivie, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2025 As clients look for more agility, authenticity and accountability, Barbut said Rimaks is well-positioned to provide fast, flexible prototyping with low MOQs and short lead times. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 8 Oct. 2025 Given the weeks, months, or even years of lead time required to procure most kinds of energy hardware, many requests for replacement parts that haven’t already been made will be difficult to fulfill this winter, making each new strike more difficult to recover from than the last. Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 7 Oct. 2025 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 2 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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