use up

verb

used up; using up; uses up

transitive verb

: to exhaust of strength or useful properties
land that has been used up

Examples of use up in a Sentence

we used up the last of the flour when we made the waffles
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.
Not everyone has access to backyard vegetables, but these recipes are perfect for using up those overflowing CSA boxes or stuffed produce bags from the grocery too. Alexis Deboschnek, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2025 Even for relatively efficient long-haul jetliners like Boeing’s 777 or Airbus’ A350, that means using up considerably more fuel. Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 21 June 2025 Get the recipe 04 of 10 Slow Cooker Corn Chowder When summer corn is in season, this is a great recipe to use up your bumper crop. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 20 June 2025 For example, its Barracuda product line claims to use up to 50% fewer parts and 95% fewer tools, leading to a 30% reduction in per-unit missile cost, according to Air and Space Forces Magazine. Garth Friesen, Forbes.com, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for use up

Word History

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of use up was in 1712

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Use up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/use%20up. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

use up

verb
: to make complete use of : exhaust
used up all the supplies

More from Merriam-Webster on use up

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!