Definition of the word loosen up

The phrase "loosen up" originated in the early 20th century as a sports term. It initially referred to the act of unlacing the top laces of a baseball glove, allowing a player to grasp the ball more easily and comfortably during play. By extension, the phrase came to mean relaxing and becoming more comfortable and carefree in other situations, as well. The first recorded use of "loosen up" in this broader sense appeared in print in the Chicago Tribune in 1934. At the time, it was mostly used in athletic contexts, as athletes were advised to "loosen up" before warming up and engaging in more serious practice. However, as the phrase gained popularity, it began to be used more broadly to mean relaxing and creating a more casual, lighthearted atmosphere in any setting. By the 1950s, it had become a common part of everyday language, used to describe everything from unwinding before a business meeting to loosening up during a party or social gathering. The meaning of "loosen up" has remained largely consistent over time, but it has expanded to include more specifically social contexts. In addition, "loosen up" has also gained a secondary meaning in contemporary speech as a way to describe the effects of alcohol or other substances that cause temporary relief from tension or stress. The durable popularity of "loosen up" is likely due to its universality and versatility. It offers a relatively lighthearted and unthreatening way to encourage socializing, relaxation, and comfort in a variety of situations. As a result, it has become a familiar part of everyday language, reflecting the importance of social connection and comfort in modern society.