Langimage
English

lead-up

|lead/up|

B2

/ˈliːd ʌp/

events before a major event

Etymology
Etymology Information

'lead-up' originates from the combination of 'lead' and 'up', where 'lead' meant 'to guide or direct' and 'up' indicated 'toward a higher position or point'.

Historical Evolution

'Lead' and 'up' have been used in English since Old English, with 'lead' evolving from 'lædan' and 'up' from 'upp'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to guide upwards', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'events leading to a significant occurrence'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the period or events preceding a significant event or situation.

The lead-up to the election was filled with debates and rallies.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45