tie up Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. verb secure with or as if with ropes
   bind; tie down; truss.
   
   • tie down the prisoners
   • tie up the old newspapers and bring them to the recycling shed
2. verb invest so as to make unavailable for other purposes
   
   • All my money is tied up in long-term investments
3. verb restrain from moving or operating normally
   
   • Traffic is tied up for miles around the bridge where the accident occurred
4. verb secure in or as if in a berth or dock
   berth; moor.
   
   • tie up the boat
5. verb finish the last row
   bind off.
   

WordNet