: 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
Despite this, Jeanologia’s vision for the future of denim finishing is digital, which will reduce lead times, physical samples, and waste; automated to increase efficiency and consistency; and water-free.
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Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 24 Feb. 2026
Production times vary by maker, but custom design typically requires additional lead time compared to off-the-shelf options.
—Gretchen M. Stone, Charlotte Observer, 19 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.
—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
See All Example Sentences for lead time
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Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 24 Feb. 2026
Production times vary by maker, but custom design typically requires additional lead time compared to off-the-shelf options.
—Gretchen M. Stone, Charlotte Observer, 19 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.
—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
See All Example Sentences for lead time
Cite this Entry
“Lead time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead%20time. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.
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