prop up
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle up
Meanings
Support something to stop it falling, literally or financially
Why “up”? A person or thing receives help so they do not fall, fail, or lose something important. It can also mean accepting a burden.
“They propped up the failing bank.”
“She propped up the shelf with a brick.”
Test yourself
“They propped up the failing bank.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
back up
Same up pattern: support
Make a digital copy of data as a safeguard; Support someone's claim, story or position; Move backward along the same path; (of traffic or water) accumulate because flow is blocked
cover up
Same up pattern: support
Hide something by placing a covering over it; Conceal a mistake, crime or wrongdoing from others; Do someone else's job temporarily while they are away
keep up
Same up pattern: support
Continue at the same level or rate; Move at the same speed as someone else; Stay informed about something current; Prevent someone from going to bed or sleeping; Prevent something from falling down; Maintain pretences, an appearance or a habit; Match the social or financial standard of others
put up
Same up pattern: support
Raise or lift; Provide accommodation; Tolerate (put up with); Erect or construct; Display a notice, poster or sign in a public place; Increase a price, rate or value
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