lift 1 of 2

1
2
3

lift

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb lift contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lift are boost, elevate, heave, hoist, raise, and rear. While all these words mean "to move from a lower to a higher place or position," lift usually implies exerting effort to overcome resistance of weight.

lift the chair while I vacuum

When is boost a more appropriate choice than lift?

The words boost and lift can be used in similar contexts, but boost suggests assisting to climb or advance by a push.

boosted his brother over the fence

How does the word elevate relate to other synonyms for lift?

Elevate may replace lift or raise especially when exalting or enhancing is implied.

elevated the taste of the public

When would heave be a good substitute for lift?

Although the words heave and lift have much in common, heave implies lifting and throwing with great effort or strain.

heaved the heavy crate inside

When is it sensible to use hoist instead of lift?

The meanings of hoist and lift largely overlap; however, hoist implies lifting something heavy especially by mechanical means.

hoisted the cargo on board

In what contexts can raise take the place of lift?

While in some cases nearly identical to lift, raise carries a stronger implication of bringing up to the vertical or to a high position.

scouts raising a flagpole

How are the words rear and raise related as synonyms of lift?

Rear may add an element of suddenness to raise.

suddenly reared itself up on its hind legs

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of lift
Verb
Elon Musk's company is targeting Monday evening (March 3) for Flight 8 of Starship, which will lift off from Starbase in South Texas, near the border city of Brownsville. Mike Wall, Space.com, 28 Feb. 2025 The decision to lift travel restrictions has been broadly criticized by politicians in Romania. Amy Croffey, CNN, 27 Feb. 2025
Noun
This allows a more comprehensive lift via all structures, so that the skin does not look too pulled. Kathryn Hopkins, WWD, 20 Feb. 2025 Beyond the modules, Four Wheel offers a long list of options, including various solar packages, a pair of portable toilet options, an automatic roof lift, a larger king-size bed, the two aforementioned stoves, and a Truma furnace. New Atlas, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lift
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lift
Verb
  • Von der Leyen has proposed that the EU's executive branch, the European Commission, raise up to $161 billion on financial markets that would be loaned to member countries buy new military equipment for themselves, or to send to Ukraine.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Broward teachers, other school district employees get 3% raises Eyeing a friendly Supreme Court, Republicans push for the Ten Commandments in schools Trump vowed to leverage federal money to fight antisemitism.
    South Florida Sun Sentinel, Sun Sentinel, 6 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • In addition to the spacious courtyard, where the sun can be seen setting behind the mountains that rise to the west of Rancho Mirage, the north side of the house spills onto a covered terrace that bows out into a lush, grassy yard that backs up to the golf course.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The watch includes a spinning roulette wheel in a 44-mm rose gold case.
    Mikelle Street, WWD, 28 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • While the competitive spirt was certainly alive and well between co-parents Tarek, Heather and Christina throughout the season, another personal crisis unexpectedly stole the show: Christina's split from Josh.
    Colson Thayer, People.com, 6 Mar. 2025
  • While its interior artfully blends mid-century aesthetics with a modern Scandinavian feel, the food and beverage program truly steals the spotlight.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The Huskies finished the game with 19 assists and a 35-18 rebounding advantage.
    Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 27 Feb. 2025
  • DeMar DeRozan had 19 points, six rebounds, eight assists and two steals.
    Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee, 27 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Consider going for a run, walk, or bike ride a few times weekly for a more well-rounded workout plan.14 Prioritize nutrition: A nutritious diet that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, leafy greens, and healthy fats helps your body recover and supports muscle growth.
    Sherri Gordon, Health, 3 Mar. 2025
  • The clip ends with a shot of a couple on the ride appearing stunned by the experience.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Conceived with a day-to-night approach, the collection was elevated with asymmetric drapery, fringes and sequined appliqués, all enhanced by an earthy color palette with pink and purple touches.
    WWD, WWD, 3 Mar. 2025
  • No matter what treatments or styles lie in store for your hair, the experience will be elevated by the subtly wafting aroma of their smolderingly exquisite fragrance.
    Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Why do squirrels run corkscrews around the perimeter of a tree instead of climbing straight up?
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 26 Feb. 2025
  • That tune, which once climbed all the way to No. 3, is back at No. 34.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • From matte and hydrating to tinted and opaque, here are the most flattering nude lipsticks to swipe on.
    Claire Sullivan, WWD, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Just a few weeks ago, Birds By Joe 2 was also hit by a brazen robbery, when a young man swiped a $7,000 African grey parrot from the store.
    Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 19 Feb. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lift.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lift. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on lift

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!