Synonyms: strain, tense, tense up
Definition: cause to be tense and uneasy or nervous or anxious
Usage: he got a phone call from his lawyer that tensed him up
Similar words: affect
Definition: act physically on; have an effect upon
Usage: the medicine affects my heart rate
Definition: become tense, nervous, or uneasy
Usage: He tensed up when he saw his opponent enter the room
Similar words: turn, change state
Definition: undergo a transformation or a change of position or action
Usage: We turned from Socialism to Capitalism; The people turned against the President when he stole the election