soap up
A2 informal separable both
In simple words
To put soap on yourself or something else and rub it in.
Literal meaning: To cover with soap going upward — transparent and literal.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To cover the body or a surface thoroughly with soap, usually creating a lather.
"Soap up your hands for at least twenty seconds before rinsing them under the tap."
Grammar: separable
2 C1
idiomatic
informal
To flatter or praise someone excessively, often to gain a favour (informal, less common).
"He was soaping up the boss all morning, hoping to get the Friday afternoon off."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Commonly used in the context of showering or bathing. Can be reflexive ('soap yourself up') or intransitive ('soap up first, then rinse'). More common in American English.
Commonly used with
hands body hair skin brush sponge
Forms
Base
soap up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
soaps up
he/she/it
Past simple
soaped up
yesterday
Past participle
soaped up
have + pp
-ing form
soaping up
continuous
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Synonyms
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