1. To gradually increase speed, energy, or intensity towards the conclusion of something, gaining strength as you approach the finish
The team managed to build momentum at the end of the season and made it to the playoffs.
O time conseguiu criar impulso no final da temporada e se classificou para os playoffs.
2. To accelerate progress or gain advantage in the final stages of a competition, project, or event
She began to build momentum at the end of the race and overtook her competitors.
Ela começou a criar impulso no final da corrida e ultrapassou seus competidores.