big-up

1 of 2

transitive verb

ˈbig-ˌəp

big-upped; big-upping; big-ups

US slang

: to praise (someone or something)

But "Thank You," which big-ups the Lord, and "Greetings From NY," which features his 12-year-old son, show Badlands focused on religion and home rather than thug life.

—Justin Hampton, Spin, March 2006

Then he gets around to big-upping the city's (and, as of two days prior, America's) favorite Democratic son.

—Josh Modell, Spin, August 2008

Celebs … big-up her clothes.

—Alexandra Phanor, Vibe, June 2002

A natural charmer, Drake … big-ups the kinds of details most men miss: perfectly done hair and heel-and-handbag combos.

—Josh Eells, Rolling Stone, 24 June 2010

big up

2 of 2

noun

US slang

: an expression of thanks or praise

The love has indeed come in the States, via sheer word of mouth, big ups from artists … and heavy airplay …

—Kimberly Chun, San Francisco Chronicle, 3 Feb. 2011

Give kudos where kudos due, and no one will object to big ups being given to you for your part in a joint endeavor.

—Chicago Daily Herald, 19 Sept. 2010

All season long we've given Smith big ups for erasing such unsavory shot selection from his barren offensive repertoire.

—Peter Vecsey, New York Post, 30 Apr. 2010

Word History

First Known Use

Transitive Verb

1943, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1992, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now