Knees Up

Knees Up (noun / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Have a knees up, Knees-up, Good old knees up)

Definition:

Knees up is British slang for a lively party or celebration, usually with music, dancing and plenty to drink. It suggests a cheerful, informal get-together where people let their hair down, such as a wedding reception, a pub party or a family do.

Where Knees Up Comes From:

The phrase comes from a song and dance called “Knees Up Mother Brown”, a popular Cockney music hall song from the early 1900s in which dancers lift their knees high. It became linked with East London street parties and the Blitz spirit of the Second World War. Today it is a general phrase for a good party.

How People Actually Use Knees Up:

People say “we are having a knees up on Saturday” or “it was a proper knees up”. It is often used for family parties, street parties and national celebrations, such as royal jubilees. It carries a sense of warmth and community.

Is Knees Up Old-Fashioned?

A little, but people of all ages still understand it, and it is common in the south-east of England. Younger speakers might say “party” or “link up” instead.

Examples in the Wild:

• “We are having a knees up for Gran’s birthday.”

  Meaning: We are holding a lively party.

• “It was a proper knees up at the wedding.”

  Meaning: It was a fun, lively celebration.

• “Street party? A good old knees up.”

  Meaning: A traditional community party.

Similar Slang:

Lit, Linking, Bevvy, Banging, Buzzing, Legless

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