Pronunciation: [smˈɑːtən ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The expression "smarten up" can be divided into two parts. "Smart" (IPA: /smɑːrt/) refers to being intelligent or well-dressed, and "up" (IPA: /ʌp/) means to improve or enhance. When put together, "smarten up" means to make oneself more intelligent or better-presented. The spelling of this phrase follows conventional English spelling rules, with "smart" spelled with an "rt" and "up" spelled with a "u" and "p".
The phrase "smarten up" is an idiomatic expression that has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, it refers to the act of improving one's appearance, behavior, or intellect in order to present oneself in a more polished and sophisticated manner. It implies making oneself more presentable or well-groomed, both physically and socially, to be perceived as more refined or professional. This can involve dressing more stylishly, adopting a more educated or knowledgeable demeanor, or enhancing one's social skills and etiquette.
Additionally, "smarten up" can also be used to advise or request someone to become more alert, vigilant, or aware of their surroundings or actions. It suggests the need to pay increased attention, become more focused, or refine one's performance for better results. This can relate to improving productivity, efficiency, or skills in a specific task or profession.
Furthermore, "smarten up" may also be employed as a metaphorical way of urging someone to become more intelligent or insightful. In this sense, it suggests the need to expand one's knowledge, broaden one's horizons, or develop critical thinking abilities. It implies the importance of becoming more astute or perceptive in order to make informed decisions or engage in intellectual pursuits.
Overall, "smarten up" is a versatile phrase often used to encourage personal growth, refinement, and intellectual development in a variety of contexts.
The phrase smarten up has its origins in American English idiomatic speech. It is a phrasal verb that emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century.
The word smart in this context means to be stylish or well-dressed. It can be traced back to the Middle English term smerten meaning to feel pain or be wounded. Over time, smart came to be associated with sharpness and intelligence, as well as neatness and sophistication in appearance.
The addition of up to smart in the phrase smarten up brings a sense of improvement or enhancement to one's appearance, actions, or behavior. It suggests making oneself more presentable or improving one's skills or performance.
Overall, the etymology of smarten up can be understood as a combination of the meanings behind smart and the phrasal verb particle up.
