speak up

verb

spoke up; spoken up; speaking up; speaks up

intransitive verb

1

: to speak loudly and distinctly

2

: to express an opinion freely

… speak up for truth and justice …

—Clive Bell

Synonyms of speak up

• speak out
• shout
• cry
• talk up
• yell
• pipe up
• spout (off)
• sound off

Examples of speak up in a Sentence

she's never been afraid to speak up at town meetings

Recent Examples on the Web

Someone senses something is wrong — unstable snow, deteriorating conditions, a risky route — but speaking up means challenging the plan and slowing everyone down. —Jane Sadowsky, Fortune, 28 Mar. 2026

Your position urging Broward County to choose resiliency over regret reflected exactly why so many residents felt compelled to speak up. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 27 Mar. 2026

Progress begins when families speak up and stay engaged. —Shon Lowe, Twin Cities, 26 Mar. 2026

As Self decides on his coaching future, several players have spoken up on his behalf, specifically in regard to online criticism about the Jayhawks’ recent seasons. —Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 25 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1681, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for speak up

• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• buildup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup
• markup

Kids Definition

speak up

verb

: speak out