1 B1 idiomatic informal
To invent a plan, idea, or excuse, especially a creative or unusual one.
"Who dreamed up the idea of having a dessert competition at the office party?"
separable
dream up
B1 informal separable transitive
To invent or think of something using imagination, especially something unusual or clever.
In plain English
To think of a new idea, plan, or excuse, especially a very creative or strange one.
What does "dream up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To create or devise something imaginative or fanciful, often in an artistic or creative context.
"The author dreamed up an entire mythology for the fictional world in her novel."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To create something in a dream — imagining something out of thin air.
Actually means
To think of a new idea, plan, or excuse, especially a very creative or strange one.
Usage tip
Often implies that the idea is creative, imaginative, or somewhat impractical. Can be used admiringly or ironically depending on context. Common in both British and American English.
Words that pair with "dream up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
plan scheme idea excuse solution concept
How to conjugate "dream up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
dream up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
dreams up
he/she/it
Past simple
dreamed up
yesterday
Past participle
dreamed up
have + pp
-ing form
dreaming up
continuous
Hear "dream up" in the wild
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