pipe up

B2 informal inseparable intransitive

In simple words

to start speaking up

Literal meaning: to make a pipe-like sound upward

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

common

to start speaking, especially unexpectedly or after a silence

"Just when we thought she agreed, she piped up with a complaint."

Grammar: inseparable

2 B2 idiomatic informal

uncommon

to speak in a high or small voice

"A little boy piped up from the front row and asked a question."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Often used when someone interrupts, contributes unexpectedly, or speaks in a small but noticeable voice.

from the back suddenly with a question with an objection

Base

pipe up

I/you/we/they

3rd person

pipes up

he/she/it

Past simple

piped up

yesterday

Past participle

piped up

have + pp

-ing form

piping up

continuous

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