shoot-up

[ shoot-uhp ]

noun

, Slang.

1. an act or instance of injecting an addictive drug intravenously.
2. shootout ( def 1 ).

shoot up

verb

1. intr to grow or become taller very fast
2. tr to hit with a number of shots
3. tr to spread terror throughout (a place) by lawless and wanton shooting
4. slang.
   tr to inject (someone, esp oneself) with (a drug, esp heroin)

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoot-up¹

First recorded in 1965–70; noun use of verb phrase shoot up

Example Sentences

The two former Utah Cord Bank employees described “shoot-up parties” where the staff were given vials of the product for personal use.

From The New Yorker

“It’s basically a shoot-up zone,” Choy says.

From The Guardian

They walk in pairs by row houses, empty storefronts and shoot-up spots in this Hudson River city.

From Washington Times

Sidewalk prayers near shoot-up spots.

From Washington Times

He also is accused of making threats to shoot-up the school.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• cover
• develop
• draw
• expand
• fill
• go
• grow
• lengthen
• open
• pull
• reach
• run
• span
• spread
• strain
• swell
• unfold
• widen