1 A2 neutral
To connect a device, appliance, or system to a power source or another device
"The technician came over to hook up the new washing machine."
separable
hook up
B1 informal separable transitive/intransitive
To connect devices or systems; to meet and begin a relationship or casual encounter; or to provide someone with what they need
In plain English
Connect something, get together with someone, or help someone get what they need
What does "hook up" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To meet someone or get together, often to do something together
"Let's hook up after work and talk about the project."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic slang
To have a casual romantic or sexual encounter with someone
"They met at a party and hooked up that same evening."
inseparable
4 B2 idiomatic slang
To provide someone with something they want or need, especially as a favor
"My friend who works at the restaurant always hooks us up with extra food."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To hang or attach something upward using a hook
Actually means
Connect something, get together with someone, or help someone get what they need
Usage tip
Highly versatile and very common. In younger American speech, 'hook up' frequently implies a casual sexual or romantic encounter, so context matters greatly. In technical contexts, it simply means to connect. ESL learners should be aware of the potential romantic/sexual implication.
Words that pair with "hook up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
device system friend stranger cables later
How to conjugate "hook up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
hook up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hooks up
he/she/it
Past simple
hooked up
yesterday
Past participle
hooked up
have + pp
-ing form
hooking up
continuous
Hear "hook up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "hook up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "hook up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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