chin up
1. expression A phrase that encourages one to improve one's mood, especially when sad or discouraged. Come on, the project was not a total failure—chin up! Chin up, honey—tomorrow's another day. I know you're still sad about your breakup, but chin up, man—you'll meet someone new soon enough.
2. noun The act of pulling oneself upward while holding onto a bar, as at a gym. In this usage, the phrase is often hyphenated. My arms are already shaking—how many more chin-ups am I supposed to do? I had no idea Sarah was so strong. Did you see all the chin-ups she was able to do in gym class? Buddy, with those skinny arms, you'll be lucky if you can do one chin-up!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.