/bild"up'/ , n.
1. a building up, as of military forces; increase in amount or number.
2. a process of growth; strengthening; development: the buildup of heavy industry.
3. an accumulation, as of a particular type of material: a buildup of salt deposits.
4. an increase, as in potential, intensity, or pressure: A buildup of suspense began halfway through the movie.
5. a progressive or sequential development: the buildup of helium atoms from hydrogen.
6. praise or publicity designed to enhance a reputation or popularize someone or something: The studio spent $100,000 on the new star's buildup.
7. a process of preparation designed to make possible the achievement of an ultimate objective: a lengthy buildup to a sales pitch.
8. encouragement; a psychological lift: Every time I need a buildup, I look at her picture.
Also, build-up .
[ 1925-30, Amer.; n. use of v. phrase build up ]