pipe up

verb

1. to commence singing or playing a musical instrument

   the band piped up

2. to speak up, esp in a shrill voice

Idioms and Phrases

Speak up, as in Finally she piped up, “I think I've got the winning ticket,” or Pipe up if you want more pancakes . This term originally referred to a high, piping tone. [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

Ahead of her set, comedian Laurie Kilmartin said she was “mostly just doing a regular show,” but not reacting the way she might otherwise if someone piped up in the crowd.

From Los Angeles Times

But on this evening, Valentina chatted with friends about school and piped up when leaders asked the girls how they were feeling, saying she felt nervous about upcoming exams.

From Los Angeles Times

“I'm Anh, and I'm from Hanoi,” the smallest girl piped up, her black hair cupping her cheeks like a mushroom.

From Literature

And when it comes to piping up or figuring out what patterns to sing, it’s the midbrain section of the fish’s brains which plays a central role.

From Salon

"Actually, we think it's the letter N," George piped up.

From Literature