fatten up
To make someone or an animal fatter by giving them lots of food.
Meanings
To give an animal more food so that it gains weight, especially before slaughter.
"The farmer spent the autumn fattening up the pigs before the winter market."
To feed a thin person more in order to help them gain weight.
"Her grandmother immediately set about fattening her up with stews and fresh bread."
(Figurative) To increase the size, value, or attractiveness of something.
"They fattened up the offer with a signing bonus to attract better candidates."
Commonly used for livestock being prepared for slaughter, or humorously about people. Can sound negative when used about people. Often used in the pattern 'fatten up for...'
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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