Definition of "lead up"

As a result, the congressional report examining intelligence flaws in the lead up to the September 11 attacks concluded that "the U.S. Government does not presently bring together in one place all terrorism-related information from all sources."

2007, Monte Palmer, Princess Palmer, At the Heart of Terror: Islam, Jihadists, and America's War on Terrorism

Now lets go through all the lead ups to the bar, to help build up the strengths and skills you will need.

2008, Bob Swope, Learn'n More about Track and Field

In the lead up to the Games Barson had the task of recruiting a small group of support staff which included one driver and two assistants.

2012, A. Beacom, International Diplomacy and the Olympic Movement: The New Mediators