What “Big up” means
To big up someone is to praise them, show them respect or give them a shout-out. It works as a verb ("di boss big up mi work") and as a cheer on its own ("Big up yuhself!"). You can big up a person, a place, a crew or even goods you're selling.
Examples
Di boss big up mi work
The boss praised my work.
Big up yuhself!
Respect to you! / Well done!
How to use it
Said to congratulate someone, thank them or recognise them in front of others. It's positive and informal, fine between friends, colleagues and family.
Cultural context
Shout-outs are a big part of sound system and dancehall culture: a selector or deejay on the mic will big up the crowd, a district or a crew between tunes.