1 B2 informal
To write the computer code needed to implement a program, function, or feature.
"Can you code up a basic login system by the end of the day?"
separable
code up
B2 informal separable transitive
To write the computer code for a program, feature, or algorithm.
In plain English
To write the code that makes a computer program or feature work.
What does "code up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 informal
To translate an idea, plan, or design into working code.
"She coded up the algorithm from the whiteboard sketch in under an hour."
separable
Usage tip
Common in tech and developer communities. The 'up' particle adds a sense of completion — implying the code is finished and ready. Also used casually: 'Can you code up a quick prototype?' Widely used in British and American English equally.
Words that pair with "code up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
algorithm solution prototype feature function script
How to conjugate "code up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
code up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
codes up
he/she/it
Past simple
coded up
yesterday
Past participle
coded up
have + pp
-ing form
coding up
continuous
Hear "code up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "code up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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