Steam up Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Environment Trigger Remember, 'steam up' occurs where there is moisture and heat, like a bathroom. Every winter, our car windows steam up quickly. Pro Tip 2/3Preventive Measure 'Steam up' is often used with actions taken to avoid the fogging effect. He cracked open a window to not let the mirror steam up. Pro Tip 3/3Temporary State The steamed-up condition is usually temporary and clears up after ventilation. As I opened the window, the steamed-up glass cleared.