Irish up
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To add alcohol to a drink that doesn't normally have it.
Register: informal
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
You want me to Irish up that punch bowl for ya? No? Ha, OK — your loss!
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 get drunk.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “Irish up” mean?
To add alcohol to a drink that doesn't normally have it.
Is “Irish up” formal or informal?
Irish up is generally informal.