What is the meaning of "look up"?

[Svitlana_Morokhovych]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #195 "Phrasal Verbs (L)", question 10

Ray hadn't seen his friend in years, but he decided to ......... anyway.

(a) look him up
(b) look him down
(c) look him in

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #195 "Phrasal Verbs (L)", answer 10

Ray hadn't seen his friend in years, but he decided to look him up anyway.

Correct answer: (a) look him up

Your answer was: incorrect
Ray hadn't seen his friend in years, but he decided to look him in anyway.
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What is the meaning of "look up".

Thank you so much everyone that helps ua to improve our English skills.

[Mister Micawber]

Attempt to locate

I'm glad you are enjoying yourself, Svitlana.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Saneta]

Hi,
1.I have also found the following meaning of ''look sb up''= 'visit sb after a longer time' - maybe this meaning fits much better in the sentence than: 'to attempt to locate' or both explanations fit very well?

2. ,,in years''= 'for years' in the above context?

thank you

[Mister Micawber]

1. They are essentially the same; they are just phrased differently.
2. Yes.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's