English · Daily Life
wash up
/wɒʃ ʌp/
[/wɒʃ ʌp/]
wash dishes or hands
Beginnerverb
Definition
In British English, to wash the dishes; in American English, to wash one's hands and face.
Example
I'll cook if you wash up afterwards.
I'll cook if you wash up afterwards.
Etymology
From 'wash' plus 'up', with 'up' suggesting completeness of the task.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in household chores; meaning differs by region.