dial up
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To telephone, to call on the telephone.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The written instructions weren't clear, so I dialed her up and asked her to explain what she meant.
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 connect a computer to a modem.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To increase the level (of something) by turning a dial, or (figuratively) as if by turning a dial.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “dial up” mean?
To telephone, to call on the telephone.
Is “dial up” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.