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freeze up

B1 informal inseparable both
In simple words

To suddenly stop working or stop being able to do anything, like when you're so scared you can't speak.

Literal meaning: To freeze completely — partially transparent for the literal sense.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

For a person to suddenly become unable to speak or move, usually due to fear, panic, or extreme nervousness.

"She completely froze up when the interviewer asked her to describe her greatest weakness."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 informal

For a machine, computer, or system to suddenly stop working or responding.

"My laptop froze up right before I saved the document."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

For pipes, locks, or mechanical parts to stop functioning because of ice or extreme cold.

"The lock on the front door froze up during the cold snap, and I had to use the back entrance."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Used for people (freezing from shock, nerves, or fear), machines (computers, engines), and physical surfaces (pipes, locks). Very common in American and British English.

Commonly used with

computer engine pipes screen mind interview

Forms

Base
freeze up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
freezes up
he/she/it
Past simple
freezed up
yesterday
Past participle
freezed up
have + pp
-ing form
freezing up
continuous

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Synonyms

seize up lock up go blank stall shut down jam up

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