verkrampfen

cramp up; tense up

verb fer-KRAMP-fen Rare

Usage Note

verkrampfen is mostly reflexive: sich verkrampfen. It describes muscles seizing with involuntary cramp or a person tensing up with anxiety. Figuratively, a verkrampfte Atmosphäre is an uptight, tense atmosphere.

Examples

"Beim Schwimmen im kalten Wasser verkrampfte sich ihre Wade."

Natural Translation

Her calf cramped up while swimming in cold water.

Literal Translation

While-the swimming in-the cold water cramped-up itself her calf.

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