1. To pick or raise someone or something up (from some lower place or position). A noun or pronoun can be used between "lift" and "up." Lift me up, Daddy! I want to see the parade! He carefully lifted up the antique from the table to examine it. The researchers lifted the lid of the sarcophagus up, expecting to see all manner of wondrous treasures.

2. To make one feel happier, more confident, or more contended. A noun or pronoun is used between "life" and "down." Nothing lifts me up after a tough day at work like classical music. She's been having a really hard time lately, between the divorce and the layoff, so we want to do something to lift her up a bit.