top up

top up

1. To fill some container or vessel with more of something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "top" and "up." Often used without directly stating the thing being filled, with the person or thing it belongs to being mentioned instead. Oh, you're glass is nearly empty, Tom. Let me top you up. Would you bring this bottle of wine to the table and top up everyone's glass, please? Make sure you top the car up with gas before you set out.

2. To add more money to some account. With our pay-as-you-go cell phone plans, you can top up over the phone or at various stores around the country. Don't forget to top up your account regularly, as payments are taken from it automatically.

3. To supplement one's income. A noun or pronoun can be used between "top" and "up." I do a bit of freelance work in the evenings to top up what I earn each month. You'll be on a lower starting wage, but you can top it up with commissions.

See also: top, up

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

top something up

to add a bit of something to replenish the amount that was used. Let me top your drink up. Can I top up your glass?

See also: top, up

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

top up

v. Chiefly British

1. To fill some container completely, especially when it is almost full to begin with: Can I top up your coffee? I topped the fish tank up with fresh water.

2. To supplement some income: She tops up her salary with odd jobs on the side. He relies on book royalties to top his salary up.

See also: top, up

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.