Mustered up is a commonly used phrase that means to gather strength or courage to do something. The word "muster" is pronounced /ˈmʌstər/ with the "u" sound pronounced as "uh." Adding the past tense "-ed" ending creates "mustered," pronounced /ˈmʌstərd/. The addition of the word "up" signifies completing the task of mustering, and it is pronounced /ʌp/ with a short "u" sound as in "cup." Therefore, the correct spelling of the phrase is "mustered up," pronounced /ˈmʌstərd ʌp/.
"Mustered up" is a colloquial phrase that is commonly used to express the act of summoning or gathering enough courage, strength, or determination to face a particular situation or undertake a specific action. It typically implies overcoming reluctance, hesitation, or fear before engaging in a particular task or confronting a challenging circumstance.
The term "mustered up" originates from a military context, where the word "muster" refers to the formal gathering of military personnel for inspection, review, or readiness for combat. In this context, "mustered up" implies the process of assembling troops, motivating them, and preparing them mentally and emotionally for battle.
However, in its current usage outside of military contexts, "mustered up" has taken on a more figurative meaning. It refers to the internal process individuals undergo to mentally or emotionally prepare themselves, motivating themselves to undertake an action or face a specific situation. It denotes a personal effort to gather one's inner resources, emotional strength, or courage, despite reservations or fears.
For example, someone who is terrified of public speaking may have to "muster up" the confidence to give a presentation. In such a case, "mustered up" conveys the idea of gathering inner strength, overcoming anxiety or fear, and summoning the necessary courage to deliver the speech. The phrase "mustered up" is frequently used in informal conversations, literature, and everyday speech to describe summoning the necessary resolve to confront challenges or undertake tasks that may require overcoming personal barriers or insecurities.
The phrase "mustered up" is derived from the verb "muster". The word "muster" originated in Middle English and has its roots in the Old French word "m(e)ustre" which means "assembly" or "military force". It further traces back to the Medieval Latin word "monstrare", meaning "to show" or "to display".
In its original sense, "muster" referred to the act of assembling or gathering troops for review, assessment, or counting in military contexts. Over time, the word expanded to encompass the idea of gathering or summoning any group or collection of people or things.
The phrase "mustered up" is an idiomatic expression that arose from the literal meaning of "muster". To "muster up" implies summoning or gathering something from within oneself, often referring to summoning courage, strength, determination, or effort.