gird up one's loins
Ready for action
To gird up one's loins is to prepare for action or difficulty.
The expression comes from the ancient practice of tucking loose robes into a belt before physical labor or battle.
Now used figuratively: She girded up her loins before the difficult conversation.
The phrase sounds biblical and slightly archaic, often deployed with mild irony.
- equipSupply with necessities
- mobilizeOrganize for action
- roll up sleevesBare forearms for effort
- resolveFirmness of purpose
- take heartGain courage or confidence
brace · brace yourself · ready · grit · fortify · organize · prime · tackle · arrange · arm · endeavor · steady · bravery · boldness · strive · exert · valor · audacity
gird up one's loinslet one's guard down
Cease being defensive
relax · unwind · stand down · drop one's guard · let go
gird up one's loinsgive up
Stop attempting something
surrender · throw in the towel · capitulate · admit defeat · wave the white flag
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