warm up

verb

1. to make or become warm or warmer

2. (intr) to exercise in preparation for and immediately before a game, contest, or more vigorous exercise

3. to get ready for something important; prepare

4. to run or operate (an engine, etc) until the normal working temperature or condition is attained, or (of an engine, etc) to undergo this process

5. to make or become more animated or enthusiastic

   the party warmed up when Tom came

6. to reheat (already cooked food) or (of such food) to be reheated

7. (tr) to make (an audience) relaxed and receptive before a show, esp a television comedy show

noun

1. the act or an instance of warming up

2. a preparatory exercise routine

Idioms and Phrases

Prepare for exercise or an athletic event by stretching or practicing beforehand, as in It's important to warm up before you play any sport . The idiom is also applied to musicians getting ready to perform. [Late 1800s]

Make enthusiastic, excited, or animated, as in He was good at warming up an audience for the main speaker . [Mid-1800s]

Also, warm up to . Become friendlier or more receptive toward, as in I had a hard time warming up to my mother-in-law . [Early 1800s]

Reach a temperature high enough to work efficiently, as in I'll go out and warm up the car . [Mid-1900s]

Reheat food, as in If we warm up the leftovers, we'll have enough for everyone . [Mid-1800s]

Approach a state of violence or confrontation, as in Racial tension was rapidly warming up . Also see heat up .

Related Words

• arrange 
• assemble 
• brace 
• develop 
• draw up 
• equip 
• form 
• formulate 
• gird 
• make 
• plan 
• produce 
• provide 
• qualify 
• ready 
• strengthen 
• supply 
• train