builds up

Definition of builds upnext
present tense third-person singular of build up
1
2
3
as in accumulates
to gradually form into a layer, pile, or mass evidence that the toxic chemical builds up in the bloodstream to unhealthy levels

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

4

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of builds up This incredible excitement builds up until the thing finally goes off. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 27 Jan. 2026 This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 26 Jan. 2026 The residue left behind by liquid fabric softeners builds up over time, creating a water-repellent barrier on fibers. Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 20 Jan. 2026 Gently rub the stone over the stains, rinsing often as the soap scum builds up. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2026 This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 7 Jan. 2026 Last night’s event was a poignant moment for the mother and son; expect to see more in the coming months as the royal calendar builds up—with both Princess Catherine and Prince George sure to look a polished pair. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025 This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for builds up
Verb
  • That’s because the physical exertion of shoveling increases heart rate and blood pressure, while at the same time the cold constricts blood vessels–a double whammy of stressors.
    Amy Feldman, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Researchers in Hong Kong have developed a low-cost hydrogel coating that cools solar panel hot spots and increases the power output, thus improving their overall performance and reliability.
    Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 28 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • And as analytics capabilities improve, old data gains new meaning.
    Tony Bradley, Forbes.com, 26 Jan. 2026
  • Even if a party besides the junta’s proxy party, the Union Solidarity & Development Party, gains a foothold in the election, the military is already guaranteed a quarter of the seats in both houses of parliament under the 2008 constitution.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 23 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Over 95,000 power outages have been reported, and utilities warn that damage could rival that of a hurricane as ice accumulates on lines and trees.
    Thomas Peipert, Los Angeles Times, 24 Jan. 2026
  • The opportunity lies in infrastructure, services, and ongoing enterprise relationships — precisely where long-term value typically accumulates.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Accessibility There is one fully accessible treehouse (and more ADA rooms to come as Lovango expands in future phases).
    Todd Plummer, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 2026
  • Advocate expands educational opportunities for workers The health system is also prioritizing long-term career growth.
    Chase Jordan, Charlotte Observer, 30 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • However, if one spouse is 65 or older, that income threshold rises to $33,100.
    Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Picture sipping coffee as the sun rises over the Rockies, or gliding past red rock canyons en route to Glacier National Park, all from the comfort of a panoramic observation car.
    Paris Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Participation accelerates growth, but the platform owners ultimately govern access, pricing and strategic direction.
    Sahar Hashmi, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • History shows that once a government normalizes this language, the slide accelerates.
    Andrew Weinstein, Time, 28 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • While the number of retirees swells, the pool of workers funding the social safety net — and caring for the aging population — is narrowing.
    Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 7 Jan. 2026
  • There's a sort of a natural world religiousness or spirituality or philosophy that swells around a lot of things and different characters.
    Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 6 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Every December, the global travel industry gathers to discuss that very question (and more) at the International Luxury Travel Marketplace (ILTM) in Cannes, France.
    Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • As the Chinese men shoot the breeze and play cards, a mob of armed white miners gathers over the hill and encroaches on the unsuspecting outsiders.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 26 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Builds up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/builds%20up. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!