Simple Definition of uptight

from our Learner's Dictionary

uptight

adjective

1
: nervous or worried and tending to become upset about something that does not make other people upset
If our flight is delayed, there's nothing we can do. There's no reason to get so uptight about it.
2
: unable or unwilling to relax and express feelings openly : too concerned about behaving in a socially proper way
I don't know why people are so uptight about sex.
uptight conservatives

Cite this Entry

“Uptight.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/uptight. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

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