power up
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To turn the electrical power on to a device as a precondition to making it operational.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Every morning he powered up his electronic devices, even before making coffee.
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 become ready for operation as a result of the provision of electrical power.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “power up” mean?
To turn the electrical power on to a device as a precondition to making it operational.
Is “power up” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.