1 B1 neutral
To switch on and bring a machine, device, or system to a fully operational state.
"It takes about thirty seconds for the scanner to power up before you can use it."
separable
power up
B1 neutral separable transitive/intransitive
To supply power to a device so it becomes operational, or to increase one's own energy and readiness.
In plain English
To turn on a machine and get it ready to use, or to give yourself more energy.
What does "power up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To increase personal strength, energy, or motivation, often before a challenge.
"She powered up with a strong coffee and a pep talk before her big interview."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
(Gaming) To collect a power-up item that enhances a player's abilities or health.
"Run into that glowing star to power up and become invincible for a few seconds."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Increasing power upward to full operational level — 'up' suggests reaching a fully charged or ready state.
Actually means
To turn on a machine and get it ready to use, or to give yourself more energy.
Usage tip
Used both in technical contexts (powering up computers, engines, reactors) and informally for increasing personal energy or motivation. Also common in gaming, where a 'power-up' is an item that boosts a player's abilities. The noun 'power-up' is hyphenated.
Words that pair with "power up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
engine system device console muscles team reactor
How to conjugate "power up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
power up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
powers up
he/she/it
Past simple
powered up
yesterday
Past participle
powered up
have + pp
-ing form
powering up
continuous
Hear "power up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "power up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "power up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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