send up
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To make fun of someone or something by imitating them in an exaggerated, funny way.
Literal meaning: To physically move something upward — the idiomatic leap to 'parody' is significant.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To parody or satirise someone or something in an exaggerated, comic way.
"The sketch brilliantly sends up the pomposity of reality TV talent shows."
Grammar: separable
2 B1 neutral
To send something physically upward, or to launch something into the air.
"They sent up a flare to signal their position to the rescue helicopter."
Grammar: separable
3 C1
idiomatic
informal
(British informal, dated) To send someone to prison.
"He was sent up for three years after pleading guilty to the fraud."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
The parody sense is primarily British English. Common in comedy writing and performance. The noun 'send-up' is widely used.
Commonly used with
politician celebrity institution film accent style
Forms
Base
send up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sends up
he/she/it
Past simple
sent up
yesterday
Past participle
sent up
have + pp
-ing form
sending up
continuous
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Synonyms
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