Dictionary

set up

verb

Definition of SET UP

transitive verb
1
a :  to raise to and place in a high position
b :  to place in view :  post
c :  to put forward (as a plan) for acceptance
2
a :  to place upright :  erect <set up a statue>
b :  to assemble the parts of and erect in position
c :  to put (a machine) in readiness or adjustment for an operation
3
a :  cause, create <set up a clamor>
b :  bring about
4
:  to place in power or in office <set up the general as dictator>
5
a :  to raise from depression :  elate, gratify
b :  to make proud or vain
6
a :  to put forward or extol as a model
b :  to claim oneself to be <sets himself up as an authority>
8
a :  to provide with means of making a living <set him up in business>
b :  to bring or restore to normal health
c :  to cause (one) to take on a soldierly or athletic appearance especially through drill
9
:  to erect (a perpendicular or a figure) on a base in a drawing
10
a :  to make taut (a stay or hawser)
b :  to tighten firmly
11
:  to make carefully worked out plans for <set up a bank robbery>
12
a :  to pay for (drinks)
b :  to treat (someone) to something
13
a :  to put in a compromising or dangerous position usually by trickery or deceit
b :  frame 3
14
:  to execute one or more plays in preparation for scoring
intransitive verb
1
:  to come into active operation or use
2
:  to begin business
3
:  to make pretensions <has never set up to be a wise man — Thomas Rogers>
4
:  to become firm
set up housekeeping
:  to establish one's living quarters
set up shop
:  to establish one's business
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First Known Use of SET UP

13th century

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5 ENTRIES FOUND:
Next Word in the Dictionary: setup boxPrevious Word in the Dictionary: setupAll Words Near: set up
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