gussy

American  

[guhs-ee] / ˈgʌs i /

verb (used with object)

gussied, gussying

1. to enhance the attractiveness of in a gimmicky, showy manner (usually followed byup ).

   a room gussied up with mirrors and lights.

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verb (used without object)

gussied, gussying

1. to dress in one's best clothes (usually followed byup ).

   to gussy up for the ball.

Etymology

Origin of gussy

First recorded in 1935–40; of obscure origin

Example Sentences

Even attempting to gussy up the brew with creamers or syrups did next to nothing and barely amounted to much.

From Salon • Jul. 23, 2023

If you're so inclined, gussy it up with some freshly chopped parsley, tahini and hummus, too.

From Salon • May 8, 2023

Dolly Parton is starting an apparel brand for dogs that will let pet owners gussy up their pups just like the legendary country music singer.

From Washington Times • Sep. 1, 2022

He and Ms. Jacobs got to chatting, and he told her that he wanted to gussy up his place, too, and grow wisteria.

From New York Times • Dec. 3, 2021

“Let’s try it! We’ll just take Miss St. James’s hairbrush and a perfume bottle or two—something to gussy up Theo’s room and make it look as though a young lady lives there.”

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse