1 B2 neutral
To make a rough model or prototype of a product or design for testing or presentation purposes.
"The design team mocked up three different versions of the packaging before the client chose one."
separable
mock up
B2 neutral separable transitive
To make a rough model, prototype, or sample of something for testing or demonstration.
In plain English
To make a rough version of something, like a model or a test design, to show how it will look.
What does "mock up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To create a visual or digital sample of how something will look, such as a webpage or advertisement.
"I'll mock up a homepage design this afternoon so the client can give feedback tomorrow."
separable
3 B2 neutral
To assemble a rough physical replica of something for display or testing, not for actual use.
"The set designers mocked up a full-scale cockpit for the actors to rehearse in."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
'Mock' means fake or imitation; 'up' means to build or put together. To mock up: to build a fake working model.
Actually means
To make a rough version of something, like a model or a test design, to show how it will look.
Usage tip
Common in design, advertising, publishing, engineering, and software development. The resulting object is called a 'mock-up' or 'mockup'. A mock-up is not the final product — it is used to test ideas or present concepts to clients.
Words that pair with "mock up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
website design product prototype advertisement layout
How to conjugate "mock up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
mock up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
mocks up
he/she/it
Past simple
mocked up
yesterday
Past participle
mocked up
have + pp
-ing form
mocking up
continuous
Hear "mock up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "mock up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "mock up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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