Pick up the tab意思

"Pick up the tab" is an English idiom that means to pay for something, typically a meal or drinks, for oneself and possibly for others as well. It comes from the phrase "to pay the tab," where "tab" is short for "tabulation," which is another word for a bill or the total amount of money owed for goods or services.

For example, if you go out to dinner with friends and one person offers to "pick up the tab," it means they will cover the cost of the meal for everyone. This expression is commonly used in casual settings, such as restaurants, bars, or any situation where people might share expenses.