<p><strong>Noun:</strong></p><ul><li>a building up, as of military forces; increase in amount or number</li><li>a process of growth; strengthening; development: the buildup of heavy industry</li><li>an accumulation, as of a particular type of material: a buildup of salt deposits</li><li>an increase, as in potential, intensity, or pressure: A buildup of suspense began halfway through the movie</li><li>a progressive or sequential development: the buildup of helium atoms from hydrogen</li><li>praise or publicity designed to enhance a reputation or popularize someone or something: The studio spent $100,000 on the new star's buildup</li><li>a process of preparation designed to make possible the achievement of an ultimate objective: a lengthy buildup to a sales pitch</li><li>encouragement; a psychological lift: Every time I need a buildup, I look at her picture</li></ul>