noun (BrE)
1 (also less frequent run in) ~ (to sth) a period of time leading up to an important event; the preparation for this:
an increase in spending in the run-up to Christmas * during the run-up to the election
2 the act of running or the distance you run, to gain speed before you jump a long distance, throw a ball, etc:
The bowler started his run-up.
