work up Meaning of "work up"

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Definition(s):

  1. (v) form or accumulate steadily
  2. (v) develop
  3. (v) bolster or strengthen
  4. (v) come up with

Usage(s):

  1. Bin Laden, 50, had to work up his enmities, which were not innate.
  2. The young Lazaruses usually start in the basement, work up from stock boys or salesmen, must prove they can sell before moving higher.
  3. Although men and women both show interest in the bathroom, Barb says, it's mostly the men who work up the nerve to ask for directions.
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