fluff up

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Definition
  1. Verb (transitive):
    • To make something appear fuller, softer, or larger by shaking, beating, or agitating it, typically applied to soft items like pillows, cushions, or hair.
    • To fail to perform something correctly; to make a mistake (informal, idiomatic usage).
Usage

The verb "fluff up" is used with a direct object. It describes the action of adding volume or a fuller appearance to something soft. It is often used in domestic contexts.

Examples

  • Literal Usage:

    • Please fluff up the cushions on the sofa before the guests arrive.
    • She fluffed up her hair to give it more volume.
    • I need to fluff up this down comforter after washing it.

  • Idiomatic/Informal Usage (to make an error):

    • The actor fluffed up his lines during the crucial scene.
    • I completely fluffed up the presentation by forgetting my main points.
Advanced Usage
  • "to fluff up one's feathers": Used literally for birds making their feathers stand out, often to appear larger or for insulation. Can be used metaphorically for a person preparing or making themselves look more impressive.
    • The bird fluffed up its feathers against the cold.
    • He fluffed up his resume with impressive-sounding but irrelevant experience.
Variants and Related Words
  • Fluff (verb): The base form, meaning to make something fluffy or to fail at something.
    • Fluff the pillows.
    • He fluffed the easy shot.
  • Fluffy (adjective): Having a light, soft, and airy texture.
    • a fluffy towel
Synonyms
  • Plump up: Often used interchangeably with "fluff up" for pillows and cushions.
  • Fluff: A simpler synonym.
  • Shake out: To shake something to restore its shape.
  • Botch or Bungle: Synonyms for the idiomatic meaning of making an error.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Fluff out: Very similar in meaning to "fluff up," often used for hair or feathers.
    • The cat fluffed out its tail when it saw the dog.
Related Idioms
  • Fluff one's lines: A specific idiom from theater and performance meaning to forget or deliver lines incorrectly.
    • Even experienced actors sometimes fluff their lines.
Verb
  1. make fuller by shaking
    • fluff up the pillows

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