1 B2 idiomatic informal
To add a funky, rhythmic, and soulful quality to a piece of music.
"The producer brought in a bass guitarist to really funk up the track before the album release."
separable
funk up
B2 informal separable transitive
Informal expression meaning to give something a funky, rhythmic, or urban quality, especially in music or style.
In plain English
To make something more exciting, rhythmic, and cool by giving it a funky style.
What does "funk up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To make something more exciting, stylish, or interesting by adding flair or personality.
"She funked up her outfit with a brightly coloured jacket and bold accessories."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To inject upward (up) the quality of 'funk' into something — suggesting an elevation in energy and style.
Actually means
To make something more exciting, rhythmic, and cool by giving it a funky style.
Usage tip
Comes from 'funk', the music genre. Most commonly used in the context of music production (adding a funk-inspired feel), interior design, fashion, or creative work. Positive in tone. More common in American English and in music/creative industry contexts.
Words that pair with "funk up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
track beat outfit room arrangement the whole vibe
How to conjugate "funk up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
funk up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
funks up
he/she/it
Past simple
funked up
yesterday
Past participle
funked up
have + pp
-ing form
funking up
continuous
Hear "funk up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "funk up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "funk up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.