work up

1.  Arouse emotions; see worked up.
2.  Increase one's skill, status, or responsibility through effort, as in He worked up to 30 sit-ups a day, or She worked up to bank manager. Also see work one's way. [Second half of 1600s]
3.  Intensify gradually, as in The film worked up to a thrilling climax. [Second half of 1600s]
4.  Develop or produce by effort, as in Swimming always works up an appetite. [Second half of 1600s]

Definition: stimulate
Antonyms: discourage, dissuade

The verb has 4 meanings:

Meaning #1: form steadily
  Synonyms: build up, build, progress

Meaning #2: develop, as of an appetite
  Synonym: get up

Meaning #3: increase or strengthen gradually
  Synonyms: build up, build

Meaning #4: come up with
  Synonym: work out