1. To muddle, confuse, or ruin something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "ball" and "up." Boy, I really balled up the directions—where are we? Here are the items I need from the grocery store—don't ball it up!

2. To roll or form into a ball. I balled up my clothes and threw them in the hamper.

3. To cause someone to become confused or flummoxed. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "ball" and "up." Missing the last page of the directions really balled me up—that's why I'm late.