smarten (up)

Definition of smarten (up)next
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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for smarten (up)
Verb
  • The tiniest requests were dispensed with the utmost care; rooms were primped and fluffed three times a day; special requests for excursions efficiently booked; and dietary preferences noted and recalled with precision.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Plus, check out the rest of her hair primping routine below.
    Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 3 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Looking to doll up your collarbones instead?
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The store had to be closed for several days while volunteers set the dolls up for display, and only 25 shoppers could be allowed in at a time for viewing because of the dolls’ values.
    Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Kea are among the animals known to use tools, and in 2021 Bruce gained fame for employing a pebble to help preen himself.
    Elizabeth Anne Brown, Scientific American, 20 Apr. 2026
  • Give birds a place to preen by setting up a bird bath in your flower bed.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 9 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Use them to dress up walls or decorate tree branches.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The smooth faux leather gives them a polished look, which can instantly dress up an outfit more than sneakers would.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 27 Apr. 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Smarten (up).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smarten%20%28up%29. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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