start up
To make something begin working, or to create a new business
Meanings
To begin operating, or to make a machine or engine begin operating
"He got into the car and started up the engine."
To establish and launch a new business or organization
"They used their savings to start up a small café in the town centre."
To begin suddenly, especially of sounds, music, or activity
"The band started up just as we arrived at the venue."
To jump or move suddenly in surprise or alarm (literary/dated)
"She started up from her chair at the unexpected knock at the door."
Used across many contexts: machines (start the engine up), businesses (start up a company), and sounds or conversations (the music started up). The noun 'startup' (written as one word) comes directly from this phrasal verb and refers to a newly established business, especially in tech.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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