Browse all

cosy up

B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To get cosy and comfortable, usually by curling up somewhere warm.

Literal meaning: To make something or oneself cosy (warm, comfortable).

Meanings

1 B2 informal

To make oneself warm and comfortable, especially by curling up or moving close to a source of warmth.

"She cosied up by the fire with a good book and a mug of tea."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 informal

To move close to someone for warmth or affection.

"The children cosied up to their mother on the sofa as the storm raged outside."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Often used reflexively or describing a pleasurable physical comfort, such as curling up by a fire or under a blanket. British English spelling is 'cosy'; American English uses 'cozy up.' Note that 'cozy up to' (American) or 'cosy up to' (British) is a related but distinct phrasal verb meaning to ingratiate oneself.

Commonly used with

fire sofa blanket armchair bed

Forms

Base
cosy up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cosies up
he/she/it
Past simple
cosied up
yesterday
Past participle
cosied up
have + pp
-ing form
cosying up
continuous

Understand "cosy up" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

snuggle up curl up nestle get comfortable huddle up

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "cosy up" on Looplines