Browse all

grip up

C1 slang separable transitive
In simple words

To grab someone tightly, often as a threat or to confront them.

Literal meaning: To grip something upward — largely transparent but with added force implied by slang use.

Meanings

1 C1 idiomatic slang

To grab or seize someone forcefully, often in a confrontational way.

"The security guard gripped him up against the wall and demanded to see his ticket."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Largely found in British and Caribbean-influenced urban slang. May imply a confrontational or threatening grab. Not common in standard or formal English. Learners should be aware of its informal and potentially aggressive connotation.

Commonly used with

someone collar arm opponent

Forms

Base
grip up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
grips up
he/she/it
Past simple
griped up
yesterday
Past participle
griped up
have + pp
-ing form
griping up
continuous

Understand "grip up" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

grab seize collar grab hold of confront

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "grip up" on Looplines