figurative. To set in readiness for action; to raise (feeling) to a high degree; now usually, to put into a state of tension or intensity of…

transitive. figurative. To exalt or ‘screw up’ to a certain pitch. Now with up (see to wind up 6 at phrasal verbs).

figurative. To raise to a high state of emotional tension.

figurative. With qualifying adverb (chiefly passive): To bring to a (specified) condition of tension or sensitiveness. Cf. overstrung, adj. 1, high-s…

transitive. To make tense.

In extended use. transitive. colloquial. Usually with up. To cause (a person) to become tense, nervously excited, or energetic; (also, of a drug) to…