ham it up
To act in a very over-the-top way to make people laugh or to get attention, like a bad actor in a school play.
Meanings
To perform in a deliberately exaggerated and theatrical way, usually for comic effect.
"The comedian hammed it up for the cameras, pulling ridiculous faces and doing silly voices."
"Jim Carrey has never been afraid to ham it up on screen."
— Widely cited in entertainment journalism regarding Jim Carrey's comedic style; e.g. Entertainment Weekly, various issues 1990s–2000s
To behave in an over-the-top or attention-seeking way in a real-life situation, not just on stage.
"He always hams it up when there are visitors, pretending to be much busier than he really is."
Derived from 'ham actor' — a performer who overacts. Often used affectionately or humorously. Can be used both approvingly (of a performer who is entertaining) and disapprovingly (of someone being embarrassingly over-the-top). Very common in everyday English.
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "ham it up" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "ham it up" on Looplines