build-up
/ˈbɪldʌp
/noun [usually in singular]
1A gradual accumulation or increase, typically of something negative that leads to a problem: the build-up of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere...
- It's an inflammatory bone condition that causes a build-up of poisons that erupt into painful skin abscesses.
- But the more it goes on, the more it encourages a build-up of household debt.
- The use of sprays can lead to an indoor build-up of large quantities of carcinogenic vapours.
Synonyms
increase, growth, expansion, spread, enlargement, escalation, development, accumulation, proliferation, multiplication, snowballing, mushrooming
accumulation, building up, accretion, gathering, amassing
2A period of excitement and preparation before a significant event: the build-up to Christmas...
- This was reported when his Bulls teammate was at the centre of a race row in the build-up to last year's World Cup.
- Parents undergo their own share of stress as the build-up to exam-time takes its toll.
- In the build-up to the new season a contingent of York players took part in the Bradford Chess Congress.
Synonyms
publicity, promotion, advertising, puff, marketing, propaganda
informal hype, plugging, plug, ballyhoo, hoo-ha