1 B1 idiomatic informal
To suddenly become more alert, interested, or cheerful.
"She perked up immediately when she heard that her visa had been approved."
perk up
B1 informal separable transitive/intransitive
To suddenly become more alert, cheerful, or lively, or to make something more attractive.
In plain English
To suddenly feel better or more awake, or to make something look nicer.
What does "perk up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To make someone feel more energetic or cheerful.
"That cup of tea really perked me up after the long drive."
separable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
To improve the appearance or quality of something.
"A few new cushions and some paint perked up the living room considerably."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To raise up (as in an animal's ears raising when alert).
Actually means
To suddenly feel better or more awake, or to make something look nicer.
Usage tip
Often used to describe a visible, sudden change in energy or mood, such as after hearing good news or having coffee. Also used literally for animals whose ears perk up when alert. In the transitive sense, it can describe improving the appearance or quality of something. Common in both British and American English.
Words that pair with "perk up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
ears coffee news garden mood sales
How to conjugate "perk up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
perk up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
perks up
he/she/it
Past simple
perked up
yesterday
Past participle
perked up
have + pp
-ing form
perking up
continuous
Hear "perk up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "perk up"
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