dream up

verb

dreamed up or dreamt up; dreaming up; dreams up

transitive verb

: to form in the mind : devise, concoct

Examples of dream up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In sixth grade, Katie dreamed up threats that made my eyes well up right there in the crowded hall. Literary Hub, 3 Apr. 2026 Any easy toss-on-and-go dress is always a good idea, especially on hot days when you can’t be bothered to dream up a multi-layered outfit. Ali Faccenda, InStyle, 1 Apr. 2026 José Lévy first dreamed up his playful Les Endiablés line 15 years ago, and the Parisian artist has added a trio of new colorful crystal creations to the lineup. Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 31 Mar. 2026 The hard fact, however, is that California’s economy isn’t doing so well these days, and it cannot be dismissed, as Newsom often does, as something dreamed up by political foes. Dan Walters, Oc Register, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dream up

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dream up was in 1837

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Cite this Entry

“Dream up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dream%20up. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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