Psych

usgb/saɪk/
verb

To mentally prepare or manipulate someone, often for a specific outcome.

She tried to psych herself up for the big performance.
Visual representation of "psych" - To mentally prepare or manipulate someone, often for a specific outcome.

Usage tips

Informal

psych out,psych yourself up,get psyched

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "psych"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Causal Expression

In casual settings, 'psych' often conveys the idea of gearing up mentally for a challenge.

Illustration for Causal Expression
Before her big speech, she really needed to psych up.
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Informal Manipulation

Using 'psych' can imply a subtle manipulation of someone's thoughts or feelings.

Illustration for Informal Manipulation
He wanted to psych out his opponents by pretending to be confident.
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Mental Resilience

The term is relevant in discussions about mental toughness and preparation.

Illustration for Mental Resilience
To succeed, you need to psych yourself to overcome fears.
Visual representation of the word "Psych"

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