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.
The timing of this meeting aligns with the six-month lead time typically required for vaccine manufacturing to ensure vaccines are ready for distribution in the fall -- before peak flu season hits in the United States. Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News, 27 Feb. 2025 That could increase freight volumes at West Coast ports and change patterns for drayage operations, which could potentially lead to longer lead times and delays for the shipments your business needs to operate. Toni Pisano, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 The filing also details the company's financial position, including a decrease in backlog to $19.0 million from $50.0 million in the previous year, reflecting improved lead times and market conditions. Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 5 Feb. 2025 Dikmen said clients’ concerns revolve around supply chain consistency, lead times, and cost implications. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 15 Jan. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lead time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lead%20time. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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