size up

verb

sized up; sizing up; sizes up
Synonyms of size upnext

transitive verb

: to form a judgment of
size up the situation

Examples of size 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.
That said, shoppers note that the sweater is tight-fitting and recommend sizing up for a looser fit, similar to Paltrow’s knit. Melony Forcier, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026 Just note that shoppers say the shoes run a bit small, so sizing up is best. Annie Blackman, InStyle, 10 Jan. 2026 To maximize your comfort, some shoppers recommend buying a half-size up. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 19 Dec. 2025 Best plus-size winter wedding guest dresses Many brands offer sizing up to XL, which makes them, frankly, inaccessible to so many shoppers. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for size up

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of size up was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Size up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/size%20up. Accessed 14 Jan. 2026.

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