pony up

B2 informal separable both

In simple words

To give or pay money, especially when you don't really want to.

Literal meaning: Possibly from 19th-century slang referring to paying a debt; the 'pony' may derive from British slang for £25 or from Latin 'legem pone' (a psalm associated with pay day).

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

uncommon

To pay an amount of money, especially when it is demanded or expected of you.

"If you want the extended warranty, you'll have to pony up an extra hundred dollars."

"Republicans and Democrats have both been reluctant to pony up the cash needed for infrastructure."

Grammar: separable

2 C1 idiomatic slang

uncommon

To contribute one's share of money to a group expense, often after hesitation.

"Come on, everyone else has ponied up for the gift — it's your turn."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Primarily American English slang. Can be used without an object ('Just pony up!') or with an amount ('pony up $50'). Implies some degree of reluctance or social obligation. Rarely used in formal contexts.

Commonly used with

cash money fee cost bill dollars

Forms

Base

pony up

I/you/we/they

3rd person

ponies up

he/she/it

Past simple

ponied up

yesterday

Past participle

ponied up

have + pp

-ing form

ponying up

continuous

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