The phrase "reaches up" is spelled /ˈriːtʃɪz ʌp/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. In this phrase, the first syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound /iː/ and the "ch" is pronounced with a voiceless postalveolar affricate /tʃ/. The second syllable has a schwa sound /ə/ and the "s" is pronounced with a voiced alveolar fricative /z/. Lastly, the word "up" is pronounced with a short "u" sound /ʌ/, and the final "p" is aspirated with a puff of air.
"Reaches up" is a phrasal verb that refers to the action of extending one's arm, hand, or any part of the body in an upward direction to grasp, touch, or access something that is elevated or situated at a higher point. This expression typically implies a physical or literal act of stretching oneself or making an effort to attain or achieve a particular object or goal.
In a literal sense, "reaches up" can describe the action of using one's arm to grab an object placed on a higher shelf or to interact with something positioned above head level. This movement may also symbolize an attempt to physically elevate oneself, overcome obstacles, or surpass limits.
Metaphorically, the term "reaches up" can be used to describe the act of striving or making an earnest effort to attain success, knowledge, personal growth, or any other desirable outcome. It implies exerting oneself beyond comfort zones, extending mental or emotional capacities, and surmounting challenges to reach higher levels of achievement or fulfillment.
The phrase "reaches up" conveys the idea of an upward motion and the idea of endeavoring to overcome obstacles or limitations in the process. It portrays an active and determined posture toward acquiring something beyond one's immediate reach, be it a physical object or an intangible goal, urging individuals to push themselves and embrace growth.
The phrase "reaches up" is not a word with its own distinct etymology. Instead, it is a combination of the word "reach" and the preposition "up". Each of these words, however, has its own separate etymology:
The word "reach" dates back to Middle English and is derived from the Old English word "raecan", meaning "to stretch out, extend". It ultimately originates from the Proto-Germanic word "raikijan".
The preposition "up" originated in Middle English as a combination of the Old English words "ūp" and "upp", both meaning "up". These words can be traced to the Proto-Germanic root "*ūp", and also have cognates in other Germanic languages.
When you combine these two words, "reach" and "up", the phrase "reaches up" simply means to extend or stretch out in an upward direction.