feel up
B2 slang separable transitive
In simple words
To touch someone in a sexual way when they don't want you to. This is sexual harassment and is illegal.
Literal meaning: To 'feel' (touch) someone 'up' (a directional particle suggesting bodily contact) — the euphemistic combination makes the sexual meaning clear.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
slang
To touch someone's body sexually without their consent; a form of sexual harassment or assault.
"She reported the incident to HR after a colleague felt her up at the office party."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Describes sexual touching without consent — a serious offence. ESL learners must understand that this act is illegal and morally wrong. The phrase may also occasionally be used between consenting partners in intimate contexts, but its primary usage in public discourse describes harassment. Primarily American English.
Forms
Base
feel up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
feels up
he/she/it
Past simple
felt up
yesterday
Past participle
felt up
have + pp
-ing form
feeling up
continuous
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Synonyms
grope fondle touch inappropriately molest
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