sit-up

1 of 2

noun

ˈsit-ˌəp 

: a conditioning exercise performed from a supine position by raising the torso to a sitting position and returning to the original position without using the arms or lifting the feet

sit up

2 of 2

verb

sat up; sitting up; sits up

intransitive verb

1

a

: to rise from a lying to a sitting position

b

: to sit with the back erect

2

: to show interest, alertness, or surprise

sit up and take notice

3

: to stay up after the usual time for going to bed

Examples of sit-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Exercises such as sit-ups or push-ups commonly target core strength. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 7 Dec. 2024

The British Heart Foundation has a 10-minute workout from their physical activity specialist Lisa Young that consists of sit-ups, squats, jumping jacks, punches and high knees. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024

Verb

So when Silicon Valley aristocracy like Microsoft changes tack and embraces an emerging technology like bitcoin, everyone needs to sit up and take notice. —Sandy Carter, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

This is also when babies are often able to sit up without support and for longer durations. —​wendy Wisner, Parents, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1900, in the meaning defined above

Verb

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

sit-up

noun

ˈsit-ˌəp

: an exercise done by lying on the back and rising up to a sitting position by bending forward at the waist without lifting the feet and returning to the original position