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."
inseparable
freeze up
B1 informal inseparable transitive/intransitive
To suddenly become unable to move, speak, or function — either from cold, fear, or a technical malfunction.
In plain English
To suddenly stop working or stop being able to do anything, like when you're so scared you can't speak.
What does "freeze up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To freeze completely — partially transparent for the literal sense.
Actually means
To suddenly stop working or stop being able to do anything, like when you're so scared you can't speak.
Usage tip
Used for people (freezing from shock, nerves, or fear), machines (computers, engines), and physical surfaces (pipes, locks). Very common in American and British English.
Words that pair with "freeze up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
computer engine pipes screen mind interview
How to conjugate "freeze up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "freeze up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "freeze up"
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Keep exploring
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