Mainly UK, especially south-east England. (v) To use information (true or fictional) to provoke, tease or deceive. (v) To invent with the intent of conning. (n)A deceptive or provocative act. A "Wind-up merchant" is somebody who is disposed to wind others up, a habitual liar, or prankster. Origin: from the act of winding a clock or other clockwork device.
"He claimed he had been in the SAS, but it was just a wind-up." "Bob would wind Mike up by claiming he'd slept with Mike's girlfriend" "That blokes a wind-up merchant" "It seemed at first glance to be two mathematicians arguing number theory, but it was a wind-up - they were just talking nonsense, it turned out."
to give me a cheap thrill that is not genuine, e.g. by flattering me or telling me something you think I want to hear
"Stop trying to blow wind up my skirt." "I really think you are amazing at this. I'm not just blowing wind up your skirt." "That doesn't blow wind up my skirt." (that doesn't really thrill me)
When a man is held down or in check by a female counterpart so as to not engage in social situations with other members of the general public.
Our good buddyBrian Davis was "wifed up" this evening and instead of hanging out with the guys, wished to just gay it up and make love by the fireside.