Browse all

hook up

B1 informal separable both
In simple words

Connect something, get together with someone, or help someone get what they need

Literal meaning: To hang or attach something upward using a hook

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To connect a device, appliance, or system to a power source or another device

"The technician came over to hook up the new washing machine."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To meet someone or get together, often to do something together

"Let's hook up after work and talk about the project."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic slang

To have a casual romantic or sexual encounter with someone

"They met at a party and hooked up that same evening."

Grammar: inseparable
4 B2 idiomatic slang

To provide someone with something they want or need, especially as a favor

"My friend who works at the restaurant always hooks us up with extra food."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Highly versatile and very common. In younger American speech, 'hook up' frequently implies a casual sexual or romantic encounter, so context matters greatly. In technical contexts, it simply means to connect. ESL learners should be aware of the potential romantic/sexual implication.

Commonly used with

device system friend stranger cables later

Forms

Base
hook up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hooks up
he/she/it
Past simple
hooked up
yesterday
Past participle
hooked up
have + pp
-ing form
hooking up
continuous

Understand "hook up" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "hook up" on Looplines