make up

make up

verb

Definition of MAKE UP

transitive verb

1

a : to form by fitting together or assembling <make up a train of cars> b : to arrange typeset matter in (as pages) for printing

2

a : to combine to produce (a sum or whole) b : constitute, compose <10 chapters make up this volume>

3

a : to compensate for (as a deficiency or omission) <make up the difference in lost pay> b : to do or take in order to correct an omission <make up a history exam>

4

: settle, decide <made up my mind to depart>

5

: to wrap or fasten up <make the books up into a parcel>

6

a : to prepare in physical appearance for a role b : to apply cosmetics to

7

a : invent, improvise <make up a story> b : to set in order <rooms are made up daily>

intransitive verb

1

: to become reconciled <quarreled but later made up>

2

a : to act ingratiatingly and flatteringly <made up to his aunt for a new bicycle> b : to make advances : court

3

: compensate <make up for lost time>

4

a : to put on costumes or makeup (as for a play) b : to apply cosmetics

Examples of MAKE UP

1. <the book is made up of 20 chapters>
2. <she keeps making up excuses as to why she hasn't yet finished the project>

First Known Use of MAKE UP

14th century

Related to MAKE UP

Synonyms: compose, comprise, form, constitute

Antonyms: demount, disassemble, dismantle, dismember, knock down, strike, take down, tear down

Related Words: embody, epitomize, incarnate, incorporate, integrate, materialize, personify, substantiate; complement, complete, supplement; fill (out), flesh (out)

Near Antonyms: clone, copy, copycat, duplicate, imitate, mimic, reduplicate, replicate, reproduce

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with MAKE UP

break up, rake up, shake up, take up