cough up
Third Person
coughs up
Present Participle
coughing up
Past Tense
coughed up
Past Participle
coughed up
1
to reluctantly provide or surrender something, often money or information
- The debtor finally had to cough up the overdue payment after repeated reminders.
- The witness was hesitant but eventually coughed up the crucial information during the interrogation.
- When the bill arrived, he had to cough up more money than he had anticipated.
- The company was forced to cough up compensation for the damages caused by their negligence.
- Despite initial resistance, the government had to cough up details about the controversial decision.
2
to clear one's throat through a brief and discreet cough, often to prepare for speech or to draw other's attention
- The singer took a quick break backstage to cough up and ensure their voice remained clear for the next performance.
- Feeling a tickle in her throat, she discreetly coughed up before starting her presentation to avoid any interruptions.
- In the library, patrons were encouraged to cough up outside to maintain a quiet atmosphere indoors.
- He gave a slight nod to the audience and then coughed up, signaling the start of his speech.
- During the quiet moment in the meeting, he discreetly coughed up to draw attention away from his late entry.
Synonyms: