1. To become emotional and unable to speak or act:
* Example: He choked up when he talked about his late wife.
This meaning usually refers to being overwhelmed by strong emotions, such as sadness, joy, or anger, and being unable to express oneself.
2. To tighten one's grip on a tool, especially a golf club or baseball bat:
* Example: The golfer choked up on the club to get more control over his shot.
This meaning refers to adjusting the grip on a tool for better control and stability.
3. To become clogged or blocked:
* Example: The pipes choked up with debris.
This meaning refers to something becoming obstructed and preventing the flow of something else.
4. To be unable to perform well due to nervousness or pressure:
* Example: He choked up in the final round of the championship.
This meaning refers to failing to perform at one's best due to anxiety or pressure.
5. (Informal) To become excessively sentimental:
* Example: Don't choke up on me with all that mushy stuff.
This meaning is informal and refers to becoming overly sentimental or emotional, sometimes in a way that is perceived as insincere or excessive.
The specific meaning of "choke up" depends on the context in which it is used.