BELLY UP Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "belly up" is an idiomatic expression that has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts.
Firstly, "belly up" can refer to the literal position of something, generally a person or an animal, lying down on their belly with their back facing upward. In a literal sense, it's often used to describe the posture of a dead fish or an animal that has been completely defeated or killed. In this sense, it implies a lifeless or non-functioning state.
Secondly, "belly up" is often used as a slang phrase to describe a business or organization that has failed or gone bankrupt. When a company goes "belly up," it means it has collapsed financially or ceased to exist. This phrase is often employed to describe a company's failure due to mismanagement, economic downturns, or other related factors.
Additionally, "belly up" can also be used informally to describe someone who is excessively drunk or intoxicated. This usage portrays the person lying on their belly due to lack of control or loss of consciousness resulting from their excessive drinking.
In summary, "belly up" has a range of meanings. Its primary definitions include a literal description of a person or animal lying on their belly, as well as slang usage referring to a business or organization that has gone bankrupt or failed. Additionally, it can be used informally to describe someone who is extremely intoxicated.
Common Misspellings for BELLY UP
- velly up
- nelly up
- helly up
- gelly up
- bwlly up
- bslly up
- bdlly up
- brlly up
- b4lly up
- b3lly up
- bekly up
- beply up
- beoly up
- belky up
- belpy up
- beloy up
- bellg up
- bellh up
- bellu up
- bell7 up
- bellyup
Etymology of BELLY UP
The idiom "belly up" originated from nautical terminology in the late 19th century. It derived from the phrase "turn turtle", which referred to a capsized boat or ship turning completely upside down, resembling a turtle on its back. Over time, this phrase evolved into "turn belly up", where "belly up" became synonymous with failure or bankruptcy. Today, the term "belly up" is commonly used to describe the failure or collapse of a business, organization, or endeavor.
Idioms with the word BELLY UP
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go belly up
The idiom "go belly up" is used to describe a situation where a business or venture fails, goes bankrupt, or collapses completely. It implies a state of financial ruin or failure.
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go/turn belly up
The idiom "go/turn belly up" typically means to fail or go out of business, often referring to a company or business that is unable to survive financially.
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belly up to something
The idiom "belly up to something" typically refers to approaching or engaging with something in a proactive and enthusiastic manner. It implies a willingness to fully participate or immerse oneself in a situation, often with resolve and determination.
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belly up to the bar
The idiom "belly up to the bar" typically means to approach or sit at a bar counter, especially to order drinks or engage in socializing or informal conversation.
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belly up (to sth)
The idiom "belly up (to sth)" typically means to approach or confront something or someone directly and boldly. It can also refer to a person or animal lying on their back or stomach, with their belly facing upwards.
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turn belly up
The idiom "turn belly up" refers to a situation or event where something or someone fails or goes bankrupt. It suggests the failure, collapse, or demise of a business venture, organization, or individual.
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belly up
The idiom "belly up" refers to something being in a failed or bankrupt state, or to something being positioned or lying with the belly facing upwards. It is often used informally to describe a situation or business that has come to an end or has failed.
Similar spelling words for BELLY UP
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