run-up

Universal Words 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.