stepped up; stepping up; steps up
Definition of step up
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: to increase, augment, or advance especially by one or more steps
The team really stepped up their performance. The enemy stepped up their attacks. He also plans to step up efforts to headhunt for the best and brightest …— Jerry Garrett Factory production was stepped up in an effort to meet helicopter shortfalls.— Shelby L. Stanton
2
: to increase (a voltage) by means of a transformer
… the use of transformers to step up the voltage to very high levels …— Thomas P. Hughes
1a
: to make the effort required to provide information, make a claim, volunteer, etc.
She stepped up to claim responsibility.
— see also step up to the plate
b
: to succeed in meeting a challenge (as by increased effort or improved performance)
They just didn't have the guys to step up and make the big plays with the game on the line.— Peter King
2
: to undergo an increase
Business is stepping up.
3
: to receive a promotion
She stepped up to the position of general manager.
step-up
noun
variants:
or step up
plural step-ups or step ups
Definition of step-up (Entry 2 of 2)
: an increase or advance (as in size or amount) and especially one that is gradual or incremental
Lower inflation will minimize cost-of-living step-ups for Social Security recipients …— Arthur M. Louis This model will give them the quality step-up they want at a decent price …— Len Feldman "… We expect a gradual step up in sales each quarter as 2021 progresses, followed by an extended period of growth starting in 2022."— Nick Stanage
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for step up
The first known use of step up was in 1879
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