hands up

gesture communication

The phrase "hands up" is commonly used in contexts of surrender, participation, or gaining attention.

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Definition

B2Law Enforcement

(command, formal)A command to raise one's hands above the head as a sign of surrender or non-resistance.

Example

The officer shouted 'Hands up!' as he approached the suspect.

B1Classroom

(request, informal)A request for students to raise their hands to show they want to participate or answer a question.

Example

The teacher asked, 'Hands up if you know the answer.'

B2Admission of Mistake

(figurative, informal)An expression used to admit a mistake or acknowledge guilt.

Example

Hands up, I made an error in the report.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hands up":

put one's hands up put one's hand up raise one's hand head up stick up hold up throw hands hey up lift up big up jump up all hands stand up clap up thumbs up heads up word up hop up up there up for hem up gun up hands off raised fist throw up one's hands look up up in the air leg up jazz hands up in arms high five talk to the hand window up ante up run hands put up present arms wait up hand over knife up bitch up extend one's hand up top