size up

verb

sized up; sizing up; sizes up

transitive verb

: to form a judgment of
size up the situation

Examples of size up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Samsung pushed the display size up to 6.2 inches for the Galaxy S24 but kept its dimensions and weight almost unchanged (5.79 by 2.78 by 0.30 inches, 5.89 ounces). PCMAG, 24 Jan. 2025 Available in eight colors in sizes up to 3XL, this sweater has earned nearly 18,000 five-star ratings for its fit, quality, and style. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 22 Jan. 2025 The point guard backed off to the perimeter as Jokic sized up Wembanyama and prepared to improvise. Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 4 Jan. 2025 The all-volunteer group is still sizing up where to best focus its efforts, said Gregg Gonsalves, an associate professor at the Yale School of Public Health. Tina Reed, Axios, 27 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for size up 

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of size up was in 1884

Dictionary Entries Near size up

Cite this Entry

“Size up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/size%20up. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on size up

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!