Street
starred up
What does starred up mean?
When a juvenile offender is transferred to an adult prison before reaching the usual age, due to their behaviour or maturity.
"He was so violent they starred him up at seventeen."
Origin
Institutional term; the prisoner's record is marked with a star. Popularised by the 2013 film 'Starred Up'.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'starred up' mean?
When a juvenile offender is transferred early to an adult prison, before the usual age, because of their behaviour or maturity.
Where does 'starred up' come from?
It is an institutional term, from the prisoner's record being marked with a star, and it was popularised by the 2013 film 'Starred Up'.
Why would a young offender be starred up?
Usually because they are too violent or disruptive for a young offenders' institution and are moved to an adult prison early.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
