English Reference
Noun

stockpiling

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈstɑkˌpaɪɫɪŋ/ UK /stˈɒkpaɪlɪŋ/ stock·pil·ing

n.the act of keeping a large amount of something, like food or medicine, for a long time. You usually do this to be ready for a future emergency or a shortage.

n.the accumulation and storage of large quantities of goods, typically for use in an emergency or to ensure future availability. Often implies a strategic or precautionary motive.


SIMPLE

The government is stockpiling medicine for the winter.

CONTEXTUAL

During the early stages of the pandemic, many households engaged in stockpiling essential supplies like toilet paper and canned goods.

COMPLEX

Economists warned that excessive stockpiling of raw materials could lead to market volatility, as the sudden withdrawal of these goods from circulation would artificially inflate their perceived value.

The researchers note that measures such as national stockpiling programs or efforts to relocate production may lower risk for individual countries.

ScienceDaily· 20 Jun 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated