# lead time

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/lead-time
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The amount of time between the initiation of some process and its completion, e.g. the time required to manufacture or procure a product; the time required before something can be provided or delivered.

## Examples

- The lead time for this custom furniture is four weeks.
- Because the factory is so busy, the lead time for our new order has increased to three months.
- To ensure the project remains on schedule, the manager must account for the significant lead time required to source specialized materials from overseas suppliers.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.