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Phrase Meanings » set up
What does "set up" mean?
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Place in an upright position, as in I keep setting up this lamp but it won't stay up. [c. 1200]
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Elevate, raise; also, put in a position of authority or power, as in They set him up as their leader. [Late 1300s]
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Put oneself forward, claim to be, as in He set himself up as an authority on the banking system. [Mid-1800s]
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Assemble, erect, make ready for use, as in They set up the sound system last night. [c. 1200]
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Establish, found, as in They set up a new charity for the homeless. [Early 1400s]
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Establish in business by providing capital or other backing, as in His father set her up in a new dental practice. [First half of 1500s]
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Treat someone to drinks, pay for drinks, as in Please let us set you up tonight. [Colloquial; late 1800s]
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Stimulate or exhilarate, as in That victory really set up our team. [c. 1600]
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Lay plans for, as in I think they set up the kidnapping months ago. [First half of 1900s]
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Prepare someone for a deception or trickery or joke, as in They set up their victim for the usual real estate scam, or Her friends set her up so that she was the only person in costume. [Mid-1900s]
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Cause, bring about, as in The new taxes set up howls of protest. [Mid-1800s]
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