Search Dictionary
Definition of buildup

buildup

/ˈbɪld.ʌp/
(UK: build-up)
build · up
Plural:buildups
JUMP TO:

buildup Lexical Profile

buildup Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A gradual accumulation or increase of a substance, force, or quantity over time.

Example

"Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of mineral deposits inside the coffee maker."

2

A period of preparation, anticipation, or promotional publicity leading up to a major event.

Example

"There was an enormous media buildup in the weeks preceding the championship match."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for buildup
Antonyms
View all antonyms for buildup

Word Nuance & Usage

The closed or hyphenated form 'buildup' (or 'build-up') is used exclusively as a noun, whereas the two-word open form 'build up' functions as a phrasal verb (e.g., 'Stress can build up over time, leading to a dangerous buildup of tension').

• Nearby Words

builder
building
buildout
buildup
bujumbura
bulawayo
bulb

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Buildup. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/buildup
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.