How to Pronounce "tense up"
expression
ˈtɛns/ /ˈəp
TENS-uhp
tˈɛns/ /ˈʌp
TENS-up
Definition
To make your body or muscles stiff and tight because of nervousness, stress, or fear.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtɛns/ /ˈəp
British English
tˈɛns/ /ˈʌp
Simplified Pronunciation
US
TENS-uhp
UK
TENS-up
Listen in Context
I always tense up before taking a test.
Her shoulders tense up when she is stressed.
Try to relax and not tense up.
I could feel myself tense up the moment I walked into the room.