1 A2 neutral
To fasten someone (or yourself) securely into a seat with straps or a seatbelt.
"Make sure the baby is strapped in before you start the car."
separable
strap in
A2 neutral separable transitive/intransitive
To fasten yourself or someone else into a seat using straps or a seatbelt.
In plain English
To use straps to hold yourself safely in a seat, like in a car or roller coaster.
What does "strap in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
(Informal, figurative) To prepare yourself for a difficult, exciting, or intense experience.
"Strap in, everyone — this presentation is going to be a bumpy ride."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use a strap to keep someone secured inside something — largely transparent.
Actually means
To use straps to hold yourself safely in a seat, like in a car or roller coaster.
Usage tip
Used in contexts involving vehicles, aircraft, amusement rides, and safety harnesses. Often used reflexively ('strap yourself in') or as an imperative. 'Strap in' also appears metaphorically meaning 'prepare for something intense.'
Words that pair with "strap in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
seatbelt car seat child cockpit rollercoaster harness
How to conjugate "strap in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
strap in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
straps in
he/she/it
Past simple
straped in
yesterday
Past participle
straped in
have + pp
-ing form
straping in
continuous
Hear "strap in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "strap in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "strap in"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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