Meaning
To gradually develop enthusiasm, an appetite, or the courage to do something.
Example Sentence
"He couldn't work up the courage to ask her to dance."
Synonyms
develop
generate
build up
muster
Usage Note
This phrasal verb is separable. When using a noun object, it can go between the verb and particle or after the particle. When using a pronoun object, it must go between the verb and particle (e.g., "turn it off" not "turn off it").