Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

gussy up

British  
/ ˈɡʌsɪ /

verb

  1. slang to give (a person or thing) a smarter or more interesting appearance

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of gussy up

C20: probably from the name Gussie, diminutive of Augusta

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.

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

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

Ms. Fee has been trying to gussy up less expensive — but also less healthy — dishes like mac and cheese by tossing in tuna or vegetables.

From New York Times • Jun. 28, 2022

It’s conceivable Amtrak could gussy up its slightly brisker Northeast Acela route.

From Washington Post • Nov. 18, 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

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "gussy up" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com