How Do You Spell KEYED UP?

1. Keyed up is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of high tension, extreme excitement, or intense nervousness. It refers to a person who is feeling extremely anxious, agitated, or full of anticipation. The term "keyed" in this context is derived from the metaphorical concept of a musical instrument being tuned or adjusted to a particular key or pitch, symbolizing a heightened state of emotional arousal.

   When someone is keyed up, they may display physical symptoms such as restlessness, fidgeting, or rapid speech. Mentally, they may experience racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or an overwhelming sense of anticipation or anxiety. This heightened state of arousal can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from imminent important events or performances, to stressful situations, or even the use of stimulant substances.

   The expression "keyed up" can have both positive and negative connotations. On one hand, it can describe the excitement and enthusiasm felt before a big event, like a performance or a wedding. On the other hand, it can also be used to describe feelings of excessive worry, nervousness, or tension, which may be overwhelming or interfere with one's ability to function.

   Overall, being keyed up implies a heightened level of emotional arousal, signaling a state of intense anticipation, anxiety, or excitement that is beyond the ordinary.

Common Misspellings for KEYED UP

The phrase "keyed up" originated in the early 20th century and has its roots in piano playing, specifically in the mechanism of a piano's keyboard. Originally, pianos were played using keys that had to be pushed down with force. When a pianist was enthusiastic or excited to perform, they would tense and "key up" their fingers in preparation to play with energy and intensity. Over time, the term "keyed up" extended beyond piano playing and came to represent a state of heightened excitement or nervousness in a broader context.

Idioms with the word KEYED UP