pump (redirected from pumping)

prime the pump (mainly American)

to do something in order to make something succeed, especially to spend money. European governments and banks are priming the pump world-wide looking for alternative energy.

See also: prime

pump iron (informal)

to lift heavy objects for exercise in order to increase your strength or to improve your appearance. These days, both men and women pump iron for fitness.

See also: iron

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pump iron

to use special equipment to strengthen your muscles. The ads show people of all ages pumping iron.

See also: iron

pump someone/something up

to improve someone's or something's performance. Athletes can take drugs to pump themselves up, but there are huge risks involved. Everett hopes the new products will pump up corporate sales.

pump someone up

to make someone very interested or enthusiastic. Our coach talks with every team member before a game, offering advice and trying to pump them up. Taylor's band came out and pumped up the crowd.

pump up something

to make something appear to be bigger or more successful than it is. Opponents charged that the state treasurer pumped up the state's financial figures. We pumped the number of flights up to 500 in our report so everyone would think the airport was really busy.