perk up
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.
The thud of a hammering Hulksmash rattles our seats; later, a cocked rifle is so crisp we perk up like a dog hearing the mailman.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026
Vance, who is heading up the talks, announces progress, news editors perk up.
From Slate ● Jun. 24, 2026
For about $70, a plastic surgeon injected the ridged cartilage of her ears with a hyaluronic-acid filler that caused her ears to perk up.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 7, 2026
A little lemon zest can perk up even the simplest of dishes, like scrambled eggs.
From Salon ● Feb. 26, 2026
As I argued fleetingly in my discussion of pathos, the joke can do more than just perk up a drowsing audience.
From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith
