wash up
The phrase 'wash up' has different meanings based on context, primarily related to cleaning or being carried by water.
Definition
A2Daily Life
(US, informal)To clean one's hands and face, typically before a meal.
Example
- The children were told to wash up before dinner.
B1Household Chores
(UK, informal)To clean dishes, utensils, and other kitchen items after a meal.
Example
- I'll wash up the dishes while you dry them.
B2Nautical
(general)To be carried by water to the shore or onto land.
Example
- Several pieces of driftwood washed up on the beach after the storm.
B2General
(informal)To end up in a place, often unexpectedly.
Example
- After traveling for days, they washed up in a small village.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "wash up":
wash overwashed upscrub upwash outwash awaywash downrub upwash one's handsclean upwipe upcome out in the washhand washscrub downbrush upwash roomtowel upwashing daydry offmop upclean up afterrinse downwash one's mouth outboil washfreshen upsponge downwashed outcar washhit the showerclean downhang out to dryrub up on