Thesaurus.com Dictionary.com
Definitions

work up

[wurk-uhp] / ˈwɜrkˌʌp /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Professional-services firms have historically relied on a pyramid-based model, where scores of junior employees funnel their work up to more senior partners who have been promoted based on tenure.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 24, 2026

It’s not bad for someone who just a few years ago needed to work up the courage to see himself as a director.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 18, 2026

When I’m ready to freshen up my fridge, I tend to work up a loose step ladder depending on my energy and the kind of week I’m having.

From Salon Mar. 9, 2026

Because the person has not worked outside of the house, Trench and Jensen have them start with an entry-level receptionist job paying $45,000 a year, and work up from there.

From MarketWatch Jan. 30, 2026

He couldn’t work up the nerve to try it on in the night and instead spent the whole evening staring at it, turning it over in his palm.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny




Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Join 12,000,000 vocabulary learners

Start learning new words today on VocabTrainer.
You'll remember them forever.

Start training