English · Daily Life
look up
/lʊk ʌp/
[/lʊk ʌp/]
search for information
Intermediateverb
Definition
To search for information in a book, list, or online; also to improve.
Example
If you don't know what the word means, just look it up in the dictionary or search it online.
If you don't know what the word means, just look it up in the dictionary or search it online.
Etymology
Combines 'look' with 'up', the information sense arising from raising the eyes to consult a reference.
How & Where It’s Used
Everyday and informal; the 'improve' sense ('things are looking up') is idiomatic and optimistic.