lead time

noun

: the time between the beginning of a process or project and the appearance of its results

Examples of lead time in a Sentence

We will need at least six months lead time before production begins.
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.
Technical limitations and employee resistance slowed its goal of cutting lead times by 30% and reducing order errors by 45%, delaying quicker product launches. Ketan Anand, Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024 This needs significant lead time – for grids to be added, workforce to be trained, electricity generation projects to be put on ground, institutional set ups to be made fit for purpose, and most importantly, policies and regulations that drive investment to be put in place. Sumant Sinha, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Some parts of the DOT's new rule went into effect as early as May when the Federal Aviation Administration's funding was reauthorized, but some of the provisions had a longer lead time for implentation. Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 28 Oct. 2024 Gibney adds that that some outlets would also need a long lead time to handle a film like this one, but the filmmakers felt demand for the film was urgent, given the spotlight on Netanyahu during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Katie Kilkenny, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for lead time 

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lead time was in 1944

Dictionary Entries Near lead time

Cite this Entry

“Lead time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead%20time. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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