blow up

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see blow, up.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

See if you can blow the bubbles up the staircase.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To explode or be destroyed by explosion.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To cause (something or someone) to explode, or to destroy (something) or maim or kill (someone) by means of an explosion.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “blow up” mean?

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see blow, up.

Is “blow up” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.