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 justiceClive Bell

Examples of speak up in a Sentence

she's never been afraid to speak up at town meetings
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.
Olivia Rodrigo is speaking up about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 14 July 2025 Jermaine Harris, who plays Brian's son BJ, hasn't spoken up about any relationships. Ariana Quihuiz, People.com, 12 July 2025 One of the most significant predictors of a team’s success is the shared belief that speaking up, questioning assumptions or even disagreeing won’t lead to punishment or marginalization. Aniela Unguresan, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 Organizers of the event have since taken responsibility for the tardiness, but in case anyone is still confused, Hill has now shared a firm statement on Instagram, thanking the festival for speaking up and outlining her hands-on approach to live performances. Shania Russell, EW.com, 9 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for speak up

Word History

First Known Use

1681, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of speak up was in 1681

Cite this Entry

“Speak up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speak%20up. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

speak up

verb

More from Merriam-Webster on speak up

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