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fasten up

A2 neutral separable both
In simple words

To close your clothes properly — buttons, zips, buckles, and so on.

Literal meaning: To fasten (close with a device) going upward — the 'up' suggests completion.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To close clothing using buttons, a zip, buckle, or other fastener.

"Fasten up your coat — it's freezing outside."

Grammar: separable
2 A2 neutral

To close or secure a bag, case, or other container.

"She fastened up her suitcase and headed for the door."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Common in everyday speech. Often used when telling children to close their clothing, or in safety contexts (seatbelts, helmets). Can also refer to bags or cases.

Commonly used with

coat jacket seatbelt bag zip buttons

Forms

Base
fasten up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
fastens up
he/she/it
Past simple
fastened up
yesterday
Past participle
fastened up
have + pp
-ing form
fastening up
continuous

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