1. To Invent or Fabricate: This is the most common meaning. It means to create something that doesn't exist or isn't true.
* Example: "The kids made up a story about a talking dog."
* Example: "She made up an excuse for being late."
2. To Compensate for a Loss: This meaning is less common but still valid. It implies creating something to replace what was lost.
* Example: "They had to make up the lost time after the power outage."
* Example: "The company made up for lost profits by cutting costs."
3. To Reconcile Differences: This meaning focuses on resolving conflicts or disagreements.
* Example: "They made up after their fight."
* Example: "The two countries made up their differences and signed a peace treaty."
4. To Dress or Prepare: This meaning is less common but can be used in a specific context, usually referring to preparing oneself for an event.
* Example: "She made herself up for the party."
In general, "to make something up" suggests creating something new, whether it's a story, an excuse, a plan, or a solution to a problem.