Be/get tensed up Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotionally Charged Use when describing high-stress or anxiety-inducing situations. Before public speaking, she always gets tensed up. Pro Tip 2/3Avoid Overuse Don't use for minor worries; it implies significant stress or fear. He got tensed up over the court verdict, not over a trivial dispute. Pro Tip 3/3Not Always Negative Can be related to positive anticipation, such as excitement for an event. I'm getting tensed up for the concert tonight!