tense up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I didn’t realize he was traveling with a protective detail until I saw two men in suits tense up as I approached him to say hello.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2024

"We ignore them during the day, but our souls tense up when they ring at night," said resident Daniela Tanase.

From Reuters • Sep. 5, 2023

We often play Brianstorm near the beginning and I have to try not to tense up too much for that very reason.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2023

And pressuring yourself to do it right can cause you to tense up and make breathing deeply harder.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 17, 2023

And keep your draw arm relaxed, don’t tense up.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver