The phrasal verb "well up" means to fill or rise to the surface. Its phonetic transcription is /wɛl ʌp/. The "w" at the beginning is pronounced like the "wh" in "why". The "e" in "well" is pronounced like the "e" in "set". The double "l" is pronounced with a short "uh" sound, like in "hut". The "u" in "up" is pronounced like the "u" in "but". The complete pronunciation of "well up" is like "WEHL UHP".
Well up (phrasal verb):
1. To experience a sudden and intense upsurge of emotions that manifest physically, often by filling or moistening the eyes with tears. It refers to the act of tears welling up in the eyes due to strong emotions like joy, sadness, or nostalgia. The phrase implies that the emotions are too powerful to be contained, resulting in tears forming in the eyes and appearing on the verge of flowing down one's cheeks. For example, "As she walked down the aisle on her wedding day, feelings of overwhelming happiness caused tears to well up in her eyes."
2. To rise or gush forth from a source, typically liquids. This usage of "well up" refers to the action of a liquid, such as water, springing forth or flowing out forcefully due to pressure or an abundant source. It can be used literally when referring to natural springs or figuratively when describing the emergence or appearance of a substance. For example, "After the heavy rain, water began to well up from the ground, forming puddles."
In both contexts, "well up" conveys the idea of something rising or emerging gradually and with intensity, whether it be emotions or liquid. The phrasal verb captures the idea of an action or feeling building up and becoming more noticeable.
The phrase "well up" has its origins in Middle English. In this context, "well" is derived from the Old English word "wellan", which means "to bubble or surge". It was often used to describe the action of a liquid rising to the surface, like a wellspring. Over time, "well up" came to be associated with an emotional response, specifically when tears rise to the eyes or one's feelings become intensely aroused. This metaphorical usage emphasizes the sudden surge or bubbling up of emotions within a person.