perk up
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perked up; perking up; perks up
Definition of perk up
informal
1 : to become more lively or cheerful or to make (someone) more lively or cheerful
We perked up when we heard the good news. The good news perked everyone up.
2 : to make (something) fresher or more appealing
The new paint job really perked up the room.
3 chiefly US, of an animal's ears : to be lifted in a quick and alert way
The dog's ears perked up. —often used figuratively of a personMy ears perked up when I heard my name mentioned.
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