Definition

Verb (transitive): 1. To accumulate or amass something, typically points, victories, or achievements: To gather or collect a significant amount or number, often in a competitive context like sports, games, or business. 2. To inflict or suffer (a loss, defeat, or injury): To cause or experience a significant negative outcome. 3. (Archaic/Horse care) To supply a rack with feed for animals.

Usage and Examples

• To accumulate points, wins, or amounts:
  • The star player racked up 30 points in the first half of the game.
  • The company has racked up significant profits this quarter.
  • She racked up over 100,000 frequent flyer miles last year.
• To inflict or suffer a loss/injury:
  • The hurricane racked up billions of dollars in damages.
  • The inexperienced driver racked up several traffic violations.
• (Archaic) To supply a feed rack:
  • The stable hand racked up the horses for the night.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The phrasal verb "rack up" is almost always used with a direct object (what is being accumulated or suffered). It implies a steady or rapid accumulation.
• It often carries a connotation of a notable or impressive total, whether positive (scores, sales) or negative (debts, losses).
• In informal contexts, it can mean to achieve a series of successes:

Variants and Related Words

• Rack (verb): To cause extreme physical or mental stress (e.g., ). This is a different but related verb, sharing the origin of causing strain or accumulation.
• Run up (phrasal verb): A close synonym for accumulating, especially debts or bills (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Accumulate
• Amass
• Notch up
• Chalk up
• Score
• Sustain (for injuries/losses)

Phrasal Verbs

• Rack up does not typically combine further. It is itself a phrasal verb.

Related Idioms

• To rack one's brains: To think very hard. (Note: This uses "rack" as a separate verb, not the phrasal verb "rack up").
• Off the rack: Refers to mass-produced clothing (not custom-made). (Note: This is a different idiom using "rack" as a noun).

Verb

1. supply a rack with feed for (horses or other animals)
2. defeat thoroughly
   • He mopped up the floor with his opponents
3. place in a rack
   • rack pool balls
4. gain points in a game
   • The home team scored many times
   • He hit a home run
   • He hit .300 in the past season