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 /dres ʌp/
"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:
costume fancy dress get dressed up put on a costume put 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:
embellish garnish decorate enhance improve
Learn This Word at Lingoland
Related Word:
Get dressed up dressed (up) to the nines dresses dressed dressing dress dress in