tap up
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To make a specific approach to a person considered to be suitable for a professional position.
Examples
In earlier years, the intelligence services would often recruit agents by tapping them up.
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 make an approach to a player, under contract to another club, in order to attempt to negotiate a transfer.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “tap up” mean?
To make a specific approach to a person considered to be suitable for a professional position.
Is “tap up” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.