do up: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘do up’ mean?
The idiom "do up" means to fasten or close something, such as a button or a zipper, typically when referring to clothing.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "eye up" means to look at or observe someone or something with interest or desire, typically in a romantic or sexual way.
The idiom "do down" means to criticize or speak negatively about someone or something.
The idiom "cue up" means to prepare or get ready for something, usually by following a specific order or sequence. It is often used in reference to music or audiovisual material, where a cue is given to start or play a particular part.
The idiom "crank up" means to increase the intensity, volume, or speed of something, typically referring to machinery or activities. It suggests to make something more powerful, active, or energetic.
The idiom "cowboy up" means to toughen up or show courage and determination in the face of a challenge or difficult situation.
The idiom "cover up" means to hide or conceal something, often a mistake or wrongdoing, in order to avoid being caught or facing consequences.
"Coil up" is an idiom that means to curl or wind into a tight, circular shape. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is getting ready to attack or confront a situation or someone who is preparing for action.
The idiom "clip it" means to cut or shorten something, typically in a quick and efficient manner.
Deciphering "Do Up"
The idiom "do up" has multiple meanings and uses in American English. One meaning is to fasten or secure something, like buttons on a shirt or a zipper on a jacket. This usage often pertains to getting dressed or preparing for an event. For example, when getting ready in the morning, I do up my buttons and zip up my jacket before leaving the house.
Another meaning of "do up" is to renovate or redecorate a space or object. This is commonly heard when referring to homes, where people or contractors do up a room or an entire house to give it a fresh look or improve its condition. Last summer, my husband and I did up our kitchen by adding new cabinets and a fresh coat of paint.
"Do up" can also describe completing or finishing a task or responsibility. If someone says they need to do up their taxes, they mean they need to fill out and submit their tax forms. Similarly, if someone mentions needing to do up a report for work, it means they have to complete and submit the document. This weekend, I plan to do up my laundry, clean the house, and finish up a project for work.
In addition, "do up" can be used when preparing or organizing a meal or food item. If someone says they are going to do up dinner or do up a roast, it means they plan to cook or prepare the meal in a particular way. Tonight, I'm going to do up a delicious stir-fry for dinner using fresh vegetables from the farmer's market.
It's important to note that in informal contexts, "do up" can also mean to physically or emotionally harm someone. While this usage is less common and may be considered more dated or regional, it's still important to be aware of its existence. Let's remember to use language that promotes understanding and kindness.
To summarize, the idiom "do up" has a range of meanings and uses in American English. It can refer to fastening or securing, renovating or redecorating, completing tasks or responsibilities, and preparing meals or food items. This versatile phrase can be used in various everyday situations to express different actions and intentions. Let's embrace the flexibility and adaptability of the idiom "do up" in our language and communication.
Example usage
1. She can do up her hair in a stylish bun for the party tonight.
2. The father helped his son do up his shoelaces before going to school.
3. I need to do up my apartment before I can move in - paint the walls, buy furniture, and decorate.
More "verb" idioms
