What does perking mean?
Perking is the present participle of 'perk', a verb meaning to lift oneself upright or to become visibly more lively and alert. The expression 'perk up' is especially common: someone who perks up suddenly looks more interested, cheerful, energetic, or attentive. The word can also describe a physical movement, such as an animal raising its head or a person sitting up straighter. In everyday usage, 'perking' often carries a positive and informal tone, suggesting a sudden improvement in mood or energy. It can be used for people, animals, and even objects or situations, as in a room perking up when guests arrive. Although 'perk' also has a less common formal meaning connected with a drink or a small benefit, 'perking' in modern English most often refers to the act of becoming or appearing more spirited and awake.
To raise the head or body upright, especially with alertness or liveliness.
"The cat was perking its head above the hedge."
Less common than the figurative sense of becoming cheerful or animated.
To become more lively, cheerful, alert, or interested.
"The children perked up when the magician appeared."
Common in informal and conversational English, especially in the phrase 'perk up'.
To perk up is to bring a little energy and optimism to a moment—or to a face.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perking come from?
The exact origin of the verb 'perk' is uncertain, although it was already in use in English by the early 16th century. Its earliest uses were associated with lifting or raising oneself, while the later sense of becoming lively or cheerful developed from the idea of raising the head or spirits. The modern expression 'perk up' grew out of these older physical and figurative meanings.
Related word forms
How perking is actually used
The expression 'perk up' is especially common in informal and conversational English. It often describes a person becoming more lively or attentive, but can also refer to a place, object, or situation becoming more animated.
Easily confused with perking
Perking means rising up or becoming lively, whereas perching means sitting or resting on a branch, rod, or similar elevated object.