PSYCH (UP) Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

psych (up)

verb

ˈsīk

Definition of psych (up)

as in to brace

to prepare (oneself) mentally or emotionally I have to psych myself up before every swimming competition

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Recent Examples of Synonyms for psych (up)

Verb

These studies compared back support braces either on their own, with no other interventions, or their use in conjunction with other pain management recommendations such as physical activity and/or medication.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 Sep. 2026
Transit agencies are bracing for 10 million to 15 million spectators and a million extra Metro transit trips.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of brace

Verb

But the changes came after the early signing day for high school recruits and just before the transfer portal opened — not much time for new staffers to assess FSU’s personnel and fortify its roster.

— Matt Baker, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
The addition of cotton and raw material-producing countries like Egypt and Ethiopia further fortifies a strong sourcing platform that already includes manufacturing giants India and China.

— Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of fortify

Verb

The Spaniard tried to prepare his players for a crunch game at Anfield by playing You’ll Never Walk Alone, the emotive track that greets the Liverpool players onto the pitch before games, to help ready them for the atmosphere.

— Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
The city’s public works department has already activated its long-standing checklist for winter preparations, which includes being proactive about clearing storm drains, inlets and channels, and readying sandbags at about 30 flood-prone locations.

— Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of ready

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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psychs (out)

psych (up)

PT boat

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“Psych (up).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/psych%20%28up%29. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of psych (up)

verb

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