A runup often refers to the period of time leading up to a particular event or activity. However, there are several synonyms that can be used to describe this period of anticipation. Some of these synonyms include the words approach, buildup, preparation, lead-up, and warm-up. Each of these words can be used to convey a sense of expectation or excitement before a big event or activity. For example, one might say that the months leading up to a wedding are filled with preparation and buildup, or that a team's performance during the warm-up period before a game is a good indication of their readiness to compete.