step up to the plate

:  a rest for the foot in ascending or descending: such as

:  one of a series of structures consisting of a riser and a tread

:  a ladder rung

:  to move by raising the foot and bringing it down elsewhere or by moving each foot in succession

:  dance

:  to go on foot :  walk

:  in or into a higher position or level

:  away from the center of the earth

:  from beneath the ground or water to the surface

:  risen above the horizon

:  standing

:  being out of bed

: used as a function word to indicate motion to or toward or situation at a higher point of

:  up into or in the

:  in a direction regarded as being toward or near the upper end or part of

:  one in a high or advantageous position

:  an upward slope

:  a period or state of prosperity or success

:  to rise from a lying or sitting position

:  to move upward :  ascend

: used with and and another verb to indicate that the action of the following verb was either surprisingly or abruptly initiated

:  a smooth flat thin piece of material

:  forged, rolled, or cast metal in sheets usually thicker than ¹⁄₄ inch (6 millimeters)

:  a very thin layer of metal deposited on a surface of base metal by plating

:  to cover or equip with plate: such as

:  to provide with armor plate

:  to cover with an adherent layer mechanically, chemically, or electrically