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Dictionary.com

picks up

VERB
lift, raise
Synonyms
STRONGEST
gather take up
WEAK
elevate grasp hoist rear uphold uplift upraise uprear
Antonyms
WEAK
drop free have lower release spend throw away weaken worsen
VERB
obtain, find
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acquire buy gain gather get have learn purchase score take
WEAK
annex chalk up come across compass cull extract garner get the hang of glean happen upon procure secure
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fail forfeit lose miss misunderstand pass sell surrender yield
WEAK
drop free lower release spend throw away weaken worsen
VERB
improve
Synonyms
STRONGEST
continue gain increase recover take up
WEAK
gain ground get better get well make a comeback mend perk up rally recommence renew reopen restart resume swell
Antonyms
STRONGEST
complete end finish lose miss
WEAK
drop free have lower release spend throw away weaken worsen
VERB
call for socially
Synonyms
STRONGEST
collect get go for offer
WEAK
accompany drop in for give a lift go to get invite proposition stop for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
surrender yield
WEAK
drop free have lower release spend throw away weaken worsen
VERB
arrest for crime
Synonyms
WEAK
apprehend book bust collar detain nab pinch pull in run in take into custody
Antonyms
WEAK
drop free have lower release spend throw away weaken worsen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

These features develop when the air picks up heat and moisture from the ocean surface.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2026

He referred to suspicious trading on April 7 that took place before morning trading in London normally picks up.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

Besides, there are few better indicators that the previously taboo has gone mainstream than when TV picks up the strap.

From Salon • May 4, 2026

As domestic adoption of electric trucks picks up pace, Chinese firms are thinking more about overseas markets.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

Legend picks up Boo and helps her throw the ball.

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko