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take up the cudgels

phrase

: to engage vigorously in a defense or dispute

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take up residence
take up the cudgels
take up with
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Cite this Entry

“Take up the cudgels.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20up%20the%20cudgels. Accessed 25 Dec. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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