lace up

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

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To fasten the laces of something.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

However, with their first genuine attack, Sunderland scored - and they did it with Tottenham needlessly down to 10 men as Gallas laced up a replacement pair of boots.

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 insert (film) into a projector.

Sources & notes

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

Common questions

What does “lace up” mean?

To fasten the laces of something.

Is “lace up” formal or informal?

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