zip up

To close clothes or a bag by pulling the sliding part of its fastener.

• Zip up your coat.
• He zipped up the bag and left.
• Can you zip my dress up for me?

How to use it: zip something up (Zip your jacket up before going outside.)

Similar words: zip, fasten

Opposites: unzip

Common phrases: zip up something, zip up your coat

To put computer files into a smaller package that is easier to store or send.

• Zip up the files first.
• I zipped up the photos and emailed them.
• Have you zipped the folder up yet?

How to use it: zip something up (Zip the folder up before sending it.)

Similar words: compress, zip

Opposites: unzip, extract

Common phrases: zip up files, zip up something

To stop talking or keep your mouth closed.

• Zip up your mouth!
• He zipped up his lip when the teacher arrived.
• I’ll zip up and let you explain.

How to use it: zip up your mouth/lip (Zip up your lip and listen.)

Similar words: shut up, keep quiet

Opposites: speak

Common phrases: zip up your mouth, zip up your lip