: 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
This one takes a little lead time, so if Mother’s Day is creeping up, start pulling photos from your camera roll now.
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Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
The organizations will also focus on creating new manufacturing techniques for components that typically require long lead times or involve high costs.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 22 Apr. 2026
Joining or forming a joint action agency — a group that provides energy to member municipalities — requires the longest lead time due to the complexities around contract negotiations for joining such agencies.
—Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026
What is the lead time for customization, manufacturing, and delivery?
—Maya Ibbitson, Architectural Digest, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lead time
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Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
The organizations will also focus on creating new manufacturing techniques for components that typically require long lead times or involve high costs.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 22 Apr. 2026
Joining or forming a joint action agency — a group that provides energy to member municipalities — requires the longest lead time due to the complexities around contract negotiations for joining such agencies.
—Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026
What is the lead time for customization, manufacturing, and delivery?
—Maya Ibbitson, Architectural Digest, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for lead time
Cite this Entry
“Lead time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead%20time. Accessed 1 May. 2026.
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