crank-up

[ krangk-uhp ]
/ ˈkræŋkˌʌp /

noun

an act or instance of cranking up.

Origin of crank-up

First recorded in 1905–10; noun use of verb phrase crank up

Definition for crank up (2 of 2)

Origin of crank

1
before 1000; Middle English cranke, Old English cranc-, in crancstǣf crank (see staff1)

OTHER WORDS FROM crank

crank·less, adjective non·crank·ing, adjective un·cranked, adjective

British Dictionary definitions for crank up (1 of 3)

crank up

verb (tr) slang

to increase (loudness, output, etc) he cranked up his pace
to set in motion or invigorate news editors have to crank up tired reporters
(intr, adverb) to inject a narcotic drug

British Dictionary definitions for crank up (2 of 3)

crank 1
/ (kræŋk) /

noun

a device for communicating motion or for converting reciprocating motion into rotary motion or vice versa. It consists of an arm projecting from a shaft, often with a second member attached to it parallel to the shaft
Also called: crank handle, starting handle a handle incorporating a crank, used to start an engine or motor
informal
  1. an eccentric or odd person, esp someone who stubbornly maintains unusual views
  2. US and Canadian a bad-tempered person

verb

See also crank up

Word Origin for crank

Old English cranc; related to Middle Low German krunke wrinkle, Dutch krinkel crinkle

British Dictionary definitions for crank up (3 of 3)

crank 2

cranky

/ (kræŋk) /

adjective

(of a sailing vessel) easily keeled over by the wind; tender

Word Origin for crank

C17: of uncertain origin; perhaps related to crank 1

Idioms and Phrases with crank up

crank up

1

Get started, as in The theater season is cranking up with four benefit performances. This expression transfers the literal sense of crank, “operate a motor by turning a crank,” to starting any activity. [Slang; 1930s]

2

Stimulate or intensify one's efforts. For example, We've got to crank up enthusiasm for this new product, or Close to the election the campaign really cranked up. [Slang; mid-1900s]