glow-up
noun
a positive transformation, generally in appearance but often also in confidence, social capital, or ability.
glow-ups
-
pluralof glow-up.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Denka, the 23-year-old founder, who recently moved from San Francisco to New York, is unconvinced that mimicking billionaires’ glow-ups will move the needle for early-stage founders and their businesses.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 18, 2026
Executive chef Lonie Murdock admits that some Caribbean customers view these glow-ups with concern or suspicion.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 30, 2026
Both also star as first-year counselors eager for their long-awaited glow-ups, bringing sardonic banter to a watchable ensemble of characters repping every teen trope in the genre book.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 13, 2023
Or maybe it’s one of those COVID-era glow-ups that had people emerging from isolation with straighter teeth and cuter clothes.
From Slate ● Apr. 28, 2022
One more year of being quiet, unassuming Bri who stays to herself as her friends get their glow-ups.
From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas
