layer up

IPA/lˈeɪəɹ ˈʌp/
IPA/lˈeɪɚɹ ˈʌp/

layer up — phrasal verb

  • layer upbase form
  • layers up3rd person singular
  • layering up-ing form
  • layered uppast simple

1. to put on several pieces of clothing, one on top of another, so that you stay wa

1.phrasal verbintransitiveB1
Definition

to put on several pieces of clothing, one on top of another, so that you stay warm in cold weather

Example

Sofia layers up with a t-shirt and a sweater before walking to school in winter.

intransitive: no direct object; layer up + with [items]

The hikers layered up before climbing the mountain at sunrise.

layer up + before [activity/time]

Common collocations
  • layer up warmly
  • layer up well
  • layer up for winter
  • layer up before going out
  • layer up with [items]
Synonyms
  • bundle up

    more common in American English; suggests wrapping in thick, warm clothing

  • wrap up

    slightly more general; can also mean covering with a scarf or blanket

Antonyms
  • strip off

    opposite action — removing layers of clothing

Grammar Patterns

layer up (for [situation])

layer up + adverbial (e.g. warmly, well)

Usage Note

Intransitive only — you cannot put the clothing items directly after the verb. To name what is worn, use 'with' or a separate clause (e.g. 'She layered up with a fleece under her jacket').

Common Mistakes

I layered up a sweater and a scarf.
I layered up with a sweater and a scarf.
'layer up' is intransitive; the clothing items cannot be the direct object.

Etymology

Old FrenchMiddle EnglishModern English

Formed from the noun 'layer' (meaning a single thickness of material) used as a verb, combined with the particle 'up' to create a phrasal verb meaning 'to add layers'. The noun 'layer' comes from Middle English 'leier', from Old French 'lier' (to bind), influenced by the idea of things lying one on top of another.