take up arms
phrase
: to pick up weapons and become ready to fight
They took up arms to defend their city.
The rebels are taking up arms against their own government.
Cite this Entry
“Take up arms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20up%20arms. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.
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