pony up

as in to pay
to give what is owed for despite having good credit, the couple still had to pony up a large down payment for the house

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of pony up Local restaurants across the country are reeling as some key costs skyrocket and consumers — who remain nervous about the economy’s future — cut back and become less willing to pony up for higher prices. Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2025 Broward County land use lawyer Jamie Cole is leading the effort and asking each jurisdiction to pony up $10,000 for the cause. Laura Kinsler, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Aug. 2025 Whereas the international box office used to pony up 60 percent to 70 percent of the bottom line for superhero titles, both Superman and Fantastic Four have earned more domestically than overseas. Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 10 Aug. 2025 City officials argue that the Krafts must pony up more money to pay for the impacts of the stadium on noise, traffic and climate improvements. Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pony up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pony up
Verb
  • Past contestants have confirmed that pay increases as the season progresses.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Two seasons ago, Detroit opted to throw him to the wolves, and his reputation started to pay the price.
    The Athletic NHL, New York Times, 24 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Everything else was planned to the very last detail, an approach which paid off in the slim two-point winning margin.
    Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Coach Andy Reid said three days after the injury that his return was unknown; however, Worthy's rehab and work paid off.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Sarah and Chris Cooper, innkeepers of the Margin Street Inn, explained the balance of life in a town where global celebrity meets generations of tradition.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Hop on a train ride, meet cute animals at a petting zoo, play games and create crafts.
    Caroline Ritzie, Cincinnati Enquirer, 28 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Pony up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pony%20up. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

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