1
as in brightened
to become glad or hopeful
buck up, kids, it's not so bad as you're making it out to be
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in inspired
to fill with courage or strength of purpose
a surprise presidential visit to buck up the troops
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bucked up
Verb
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By all indications, the first full day at the San Diego International Airport’s new Terminal 1 went without a hitch Tuesday, with smooth check-in and security zones, bustling concession stands, speedy baggage claim and airy spaces that brightened the moods of travelers.—
Roxana Popescu,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
24 Sep. 2025 -
In Pynchon’s best works, his bleakness is brightened, in both senses—illuminated and made lighter—by the sweep of his vision and his affection for his fallible, foolhardy, well-meaning, wildly outmatched main characters.—
Kathryn Schulz,
New Yorker,
22 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Once, that faith inspired our nation to stand up to Russia and to feed and lead the world.—
Billy Ray,
Deadline,
29 Sep. 2025
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The Jahanara chandelier sandal, along with two slingback versions and an embroidered pump, were inspired by Indian palaces and golden sunsets.—
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
29 Sep. 2025
Verb
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The 22-year-old, born in Muskegon, Michigan, was looked up to by younger kids in his family.—
Jade Jackson,
IndyStar,
24 Sep. 2025
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Percy looked up at the camera, shyly posing with his new look.—
Liz O'Connell,
MSNBC Newsweek,
23 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Any student feeling unsettled or affected by the incident is encouraged to take advantage of the support.—
Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
28 Sep. 2025
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After Jeremy encouraged Benny to show him his skills, Benny panicked.—
Caroline Blair,
PEOPLE,
28 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Bucked up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bucked%20up. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.
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