Definition of "pick up the tab" [pick up the tab]

• To accept a charge and pay for it, especially at a bar or restaurant. (verb)

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• "The mood of Vietnam-era America remained highly agitated, and these particular taxpayers were not eager to pick up the tab for Nixon’s $43,000-plus gala, with its 1,440 guests, the menu including garden peas shelled by hand to prevent bruising."