crank up: Idiom Meaning and Origin

In the vast realm of idioms, one particular phrase that has found its way into the lexicon of the English language is "crank up." This idiom, with its roots in early 20th-century American slang, has gradually evolved over time, taking on various meanings and contexts.

Historically, the phrase "crank up" originated from the world of machinery. In the early 1900s, it referred to turning the crank of a machine, typically to start or increase its speed or power. This literal sense became the foundation for the idiomatic usage, carrying over the idea of initiating or intensifying a process or activity.

Over time, "crank up" began to encompass a broader range of meanings. It can be used to denote energizing or making something more lively, as in "crank up the volume" or "crank up the party." The phrase can also indicate accelerating a process or increasing the level of intensity, such as "rev up the engine" or "crank up the pressure."

Furthermore, "crank up" can have a metaphorical connotation, suggesting manipulation or deception. For instance, one might say, "He cranked up the charm to get what he wanted." This usage highlights the idea of employing cunning tactics or false pretenses to achieve desired outcomes.

Within the realm of colloquial language, "crank up" frequently appears in everyday conversations, particularly in informal settings. Its versatility allows it to permeate various domains, including music, parties, work, and interpersonal relationships. It lends itself to a wide array of situations where the amplification of effort, energy, or intensity is desired.

The idiom "rev up" is closely related to "crank up." Both phrases share a commonality in that they convey the idea of increasing speed or intensity. While "crank up" is associated more with machinery and everyday activities, "rev up" specifically evokes the image of accelerating an engine. The two idioms can be used interchangeably in certain contexts. For example, one might say, "Let's crank up the engine" or "Let's rev up the engine" to express the same idea of increasing speed or power.

Another related idiom to "crank up" is "crank the handle." This phrase also originates from the mechanical world, referring to the act of turning a handle to start or operate a device. Like "crank up," "crank the handle" carries the connotation of initiating a process or increasing activity. However, it specifically emphasizes the physical action of turning a handle, adding a visual element to the idiom. For example, one might say, "He cranked the handle to start the machine" or "She cranked the handle to open the window." In these instances, "crank the handle" and "crank up" can be used interchangeably to convey the same meaning of initiating or intensifying a process.

The idiom "crank up" serves as a versatile expression in the English language. With its historical ties to machinery and its evolution into broader contexts, it embodies the concepts of initiating, intensifying, and manipulating. Whether it's cranking up the volume at a party, revving up an engine, or cranking the handle of a machine, this idiom captures the essence of amplifying effort, energy, or intensity in a variety of situations. As idiomatic expressions continue to evolve, "crank up" remains a valuable and expressive phrase in the English lexicon.