: 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 lead time can be the difference between a bountiful harvest and a significant loss.
—
Kathleen Walch, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024
Barclays concluded there’s muted demand across both Pro and base models due to shorter lead times compared with last year.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2024
Bistro Tile Margot Monogram Mug Courtesy of brand 5/30
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Anthropologie
Looking for a personalized gift that doesn’t require weeks of lead time?
—Lindy Segal, Glamour, 20 Sep. 2024
The lead time is generally six to eight months out, with multiple fittings throughout the process.
—Kristen Tauer, WWD, 19 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for lead time 
Kathleen Walch, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024
Barclays concluded there’s muted demand across both Pro and base models due to shorter lead times compared with last year.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2024
Bistro Tile Margot Monogram Mug Courtesy of brand 5/30
Anthropologie Bistro Tile Margot Monogram Mug
$14
Anthropologie
Looking for a personalized gift that doesn’t require weeks of lead time?
—Lindy Segal, Glamour, 20 Sep. 2024
The lead time is generally six to eight months out, with multiple fittings throughout the process.
—Kristen Tauer, WWD, 19 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for lead time
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lead time.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 5 Nov. 2024.
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