up the ante

:  in or into a higher position or level

:  away from the center of the earth

:  from beneath the ground or water to the surface

:  risen above the horizon

:  standing

:  being out of bed

: used as a function word to indicate motion to or toward or situation at a higher point of

:  up into or in the

:  in a direction regarded as being toward or near the upper end or part of

:  one in a high or advantageous position

:  an upward slope

:  a period or state of prosperity or success

:  to rise from a lying or sitting position

:  to move upward :  ascend

: used with and and another verb to indicate that the action of the following verb was either surprisingly or abruptly initiated

:  a poker stake usually put up before the deal to build the pot

:  cost, price

:  risk, stakes

:  to put up (an ante)

:  pay, produce

:  pay up