chub up
C1 informal intransitive
In simple words
To get a little fatter or chubbier, usually said in a friendly or funny way
Literal meaning: 'Chub' refers to chubbiness (fat); 'up' suggests an increase — so literally 'become chubbier'
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To gain body fat, especially in a noticeable or rounded way, often used humorously or self-deprecatingly
"I always chub up a bit over Christmas — too much good food!"
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
Used of young animals or babies, to grow plumper and rounder as they develop
"Look at how the puppy has chubbed up since we brought him home last month!"
Usage notes
Very informal and relatively rare. Often used self-deprecatingly or humorously — not considered polite to use about others. More common in American casual speech. Can sometimes refer to animals (e.g. a puppy 'chubbing up'). May cause offence if used carelessly.
Commonly used with
a bit over winter slightly noticeably during the holidays
Forms
Base
chub up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
chubs up
he/she/it
Past simple
chubed up
yesterday
Past participle
chubed up
have + pp
-ing form
chubing up
continuous
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