English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word "dress up" in English

What does "dress up" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

dress up

US /ˌdres ˈʌp/
UK /ˌdres ˈʌp/
"dress up" picture

Phrasal Verb

1.

to put on special clothes, especially for a party or to play a role

Example:
•
The children love to dress up in their parents' old clothes.
•
Are you going to dress up for the party tonight?
Synonym:
costumefancy dressget dressed upput on a costumeput on fancy dress
2.

to make something look more attractive or impressive than it really is

Example:
•
They tried to dress up the old house with new paint and decorations.
•
He always tries to dress up his failures as learning experiences.
Synonym:
embellishgarnishdecorateenhanceimprove
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Related Word:
dressdresseddressingdressing tablewell-dresseddressing roomwedding dress