The phrase "tart up" can be written as /tɑːrt ʌp/. The word "tart" in this context means to make something visually more attractive or expressive, and "up" emphasizes the action. The spelling of "tart" comes from the Middle English word "tart", meaning sharp or sour, possibly referencing the idea of making something spicier or more exciting. The word "up" is a common adverb particle used to indicate increasing intensity. Together, "tart up" is spell-bound to convey this meaning of enhancing or sprucing up something.
Tart up is a phrasal verb used predominantly in British English to describe the act of making something or someone look more attractive, stylish, or glamorous, often through the application of makeup, clothing, or other decorative elements. It can refer to both inanimate objects and people.
When referring to objects, such as a room or a house, tarting up means to enhance or spruce up the appearance by adding new decorations, furniture, or making cosmetic changes to revitalize its aesthetic appeal. For instance, someone might say, "I'm planning to tart up the living room by repainting the walls and adding some colorful throw pillows."
When used to describe people, tarting up generally implies the act of dressing up, applying makeup, or styling one's appearance in a way that is considered more glamorous, alluring, or eye-catching. This could involve wearing fancy clothes, applying heavy makeup, or styling the hair in an extravagant manner. For example, you might hear someone say, "She's going to tart herself up for the party tonight, wearing that stunning red dress and her favorite high heels."
The term can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, implying that the changes made are superficial or excessive. However, it is often used in a light-hearted or playful manner, with no derogatory intent. Overall, "tart up" is a versatile term that describes the process of enhancing the attractiveness or style of objects or individuals in various contexts.
The phrase "tart up" has its origins in British English and dates back to the 19th century. The word "tart" originally referred to a promiscuous or sexually provocative woman. It is believed to come from the idea of a sweet pastry tart, which is visually appealing and suggests an inviting or tempting nature.
The verb "to tart" was initially used to describe the act of applying makeup or dressing up in a flashy or provocative manner, often associated with the profession of prostitution. Over time, "tart up" developed into a colloquial expression used to describe the act of making oneself or something else more attractive, showy, or flashy, usually through makeup, clothing, or decoration.