pick up — 7 meanings

To go somewhere and bring someone or something with you, usually by car or another vehicle.

Can you pick me up from the airport at 7 p.m.?

To learn something without formal lessons, often by hearing or watching others.

She picked up some Spanish while traveling in Mexico.

To get better or increase in level, especially after being low or slow.

Sales usually pick up before the holidays.

To get an illness or habit, often by accident or without trying.

He picked up a cold during his trip to London.

To answer a phone call.

Sorry, I couldn't pick up because I was in a meeting.

To notice or sense something, often using equipment or special skills.

The microphone can pick up even the quietest sounds.

To become aware of or understand something that is not immediately obvious, such as a hidden feeling, intention, or social cue, often expressed as 'pick up on'.

She quickly picked up on the tension in the room, even though no one said anything.