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do up

A2 informal separable transitive
In simple words

To close or fasten something like a button or zip, or to fix up a building to make it look nice.

Literal meaning: To bring something up to a done/closed state.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To fasten or close an item of clothing, such as buttons, a zip, or shoelaces.

"It's cold outside — do up your coat before you leave."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To renovate or redecorate a building or room to improve its condition and appearance.

"They bought an old cottage and spent years doing it up."

Grammar: separable
3 B1 informal

To wrap or package something, especially as a gift.

"She did up the presents in gold paper and tied them with ribbon."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Very common in British English. The 'fasten' sense is used for all kinds of clothing fastenings. The 'renovate' sense is particularly British. The wrapping sense also exists but is less frequent.

Commonly used with

buttons zip laces house flat parcel jacket

Forms

Base
do up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
does up
he/she/it
Past simple
did up
yesterday
Past participle
done up
have + pp
-ing form
doing up
continuous

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