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
Words nearby crank-up
crank in,
crank letter,
crank out,
crank up,
crank-sided,
crank-up,
crankcase,
crankle,
cranko,
crankpin,
crankshaft
Definition for crank up (2 of 2)
Origin of crank
1OTHER WORDS FROM crank
crank·less, adjective non·crank·ing, adjective un·cranked, adjectiveBritish 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
- an eccentric or odd person, esp someone who stubbornly maintains unusual views
- 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
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]
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]