leg up

noun

Synonyms of leg upnext
1
: a helping hand : boost
2
: head start

Synonyms of leg up

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Examples of leg up in a Sentence

a key endorsement that would give the struggling candidate a real leg up right now
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The tote got a further leg up in the 21st century, when an increasingly casual office culture began to leave the briefcase behind, and heightened environmental concerns (and at times, legislation) prompted shoppers to bring their own reusable bags. — Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 31 Aug. 2026 Written with grimy, enlivening frankness — and an ability to dig into moral ambiguity — every character scrambles to get a leg up. — Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026 There was some question about whether the 49ers would keep four tight ends, but Willis’ value on special teams gives him a leg up over keeping more players at other positions, such as the offensive and defensive lines. — Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Just in terms of visuals, this affordable monitor will give you a leg up on the competition. — Kelsey Fogarty, PC Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for leg up

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of leg up was in 1871

Rhymes for leg up

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Browse Nearby Words

leguminous
leg up
leg warmer
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Cite this Entry

“Leg up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leg%20up. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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