lead-up

1 of 2

noun

: something that leads up to or prepares the way for something else

lead up

2 of 2

verb

led up; leading up; leads up

intransitive verb

1
: to prepare the way
2
: to make a gradual or indirect approach to a topic

Examples of lead-up in a Sentence

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.
Noun
During the four-month lead-up to opening night, there were many who doubted the feasibility of such a production. Marlene L. Daut september 22, Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2025 The episode structures the lead-up to the fateful robbery with a neo-noir sheen, utilizing multiple points of view set within the same time frame. Andy Andersen, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2025
Verb
With Musk pushed out of the administration and DOGE's influence waning, some onlookers predicted in the weeks leading up to the shutdown deadline that the White House would be less eager to terminate more jobs. Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 25 Sep. 2025 Derrick Dearman appeared to be high on drugs in his Alabama prison in the days leading up to his execution. Abigail Brooks, NBC news, 25 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lead-up

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1942, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lead-up was in 1861

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lead-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead-up. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

lead up

verb
: to make a gradual approach to a topic
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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