Ever feel the urge to pack your life into boxes and start fresh somewhere new? That’s where the idiom “up sticks” comes in. In this post, we’ll explore its meaning, origin, and practical examples so you can impress friends—or just sound smart in conversation.
Meaning of "Up Sticks"
The idiom “up sticks” simply means to move home or relocate, often for a fresh start.
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Primary meaning: To move house or leave a place permanently.
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Secondary meaning (figurative): To leave a situation or job to start anew.
One-sentence summary: When someone says they’re going to up sticks, they’re preparing to pack up and move somewhere else.
Origin of "Up Sticks"
“Up sticks” comes from British English, first recorded in the 19th century.
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The word “sticks” refers to tent pegs or stakes used to secure a temporary dwelling.
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“Up” signifies lifting these stakes, literally dismantling the home.
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The phrase spread to mean moving from one residence to another, eventually evolving into the figurative sense of leaving a place to start afresh.
Some historians suggest it originated among travelers and rural workers who often moved homes seasonally.
Examples in Sentences
Here are some ways to use “up sticks” in everyday conversation:
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After years in New York, Jenna decided to up sticks and move to Seattle for a slower pace of life.
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The company’s headquarters relocated, and several employees had to up sticks and follow the move.
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Feeling stuck in the small town, Tom wanted to up sticks and try living abroad.
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We might up sticks next month if the new job offer comes through.
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She laughed, saying she’d up sticks if her neighbor’s dog kept barking all night.
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The band members upped sticks after the festival, heading to their next gig.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
Here are some idioms that convey a similar idea:
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Pack up and go: Emphasizes leaving quickly or decisively.
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Hit the road: Often used when someone is leaving on a journey.
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Move on: Can refer to relocating physically or leaving a situation emotionally.
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Take off: Casual phrase meaning to depart or leave a place.
I’ve noticed that whenever someone decides to up sticks, it’s usually a mix of excitement and nervousness. Personally, I love the sense of adventure it conveys—there’s something thrilling about leaving the familiar behind and starting over.
To recap, “up sticks” is a charming idiom meaning to move or relocate, originating from the literal act of lifting stakes from temporary homes. Whether in casual conversation or storytelling, it’s a fun phrase that captures life changes.
Next time you’re thinking about a fresh start, remember this idiom—and maybe it’ll inspire you to up sticks too!