V P P n build-up ( build-ups plural ) , buildup, build up 1 n-count A build-up is a gradual increase in something. usu sing, oft N of n There has been a build-up of troops on both sides of the border..., The disease can also cause a build up of pressure in the inner ear leading to severe earache. 2 n-count The build-up to an event is the way that journalists, advertisers, or other people talk abou