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Definitions

choke up

VERB
be overcome with emotion
Synonyms
WEAK
become speechless break down cry weep
VERB
fail under pressure
Synonyms
WEAK
fail falter perform poorly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While at times the show has caused me to choke up slightly, I find myself more so tearful that the magic of my kids’ childhoods is passing by.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 8, 2026

If you know Veselka, you might choke up a bit.

From New York Times • Feb. 23, 2024

Mr Johnson said he believed he and his government "got some things wrong" and appeared to choke up when he described 2020 as a "tragic, tragic year".

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2023

It was enough to make Madden choke up as he began his eulogy.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 31, 2023

When he saw me choke up, he added, “Time will go by fast, you’ll see.”

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez