Definition & Meaning of "Pick up the bill for"

pick up the bill for sth

/pˈɪk ˌʌp ðə tˈab/

/pˈɪk ˌʌp ðə tˈæb/

to pick up the bill for sth

PHRASE

to pay the expense of something, usually instead of someone else

to [pick] up the (bill|check|tab) for {sth} definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "pick up the bill" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "pick up the bill" is not precisely known, but it likely developed from the idea of someone physically picking up a restaurant bill or invoice after a meal or transaction. This idiom is used to describe the act of paying for something, especially the expenses or costs incurred by oneself or others.