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lair up

C1 slang inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To put on very showy, over-the-top, tasteless clothes to get attention.

Literal meaning: To dress in the style of a 'lair' — an Australian slang term for a flashy, poorly-dressed show-off.

Meanings

1 C1 idiomatic slang

(Australian slang) To dress in a loud, flashy, and tasteless way in order to attract attention.

"He laired up in a bright orange suit and gold chains for the races."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Exclusively Australian slang. Carries a negative, mocking tone. Someone who 'lairs up' is seen as having bad taste despite trying to look impressive. Largely confined to older Australian slang; younger speakers may not use it.

Commonly used with

weekend night out races clothes outfit

Forms

Base
lair up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lairs up
he/she/it
Past simple
laired up
yesterday
Past participle
laired up
have + pp
-ing form
lairing up
continuous

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