- 1[singular, uncountable] an increase in the amount of something over a period of time a steady buildup of traffic in the evenings carbon dioxide buildup in the atmosphere
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- 2[countable, usually singular] buildup (to something) the time before an important event, when people are preparing for it the buildup to the president's visit the buildup to her wedding
- 3[countable, usually singular] a very positive and enthusiastic description of something that is going to happen, that is intended to make people excited about it The media has given the show a huge buildup.
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