run-up

Meanings

1. The approach run of a bowler before delivering the ball.
2. The approach run of a high jumper or other athlete in order to gather speed or momentum.
3. A period of time just before an important event.
4. An increase in the value or amount of something.
5. The extent of a wave's reach onto land as the result of a tsunami or storm such as a cyclone.
6. The process of warming up and testing an airplane before a flight.

Etymology

Deverbal from run up.