take up arms

take up arms  {v. phr.},  {literary}
To get ready to fight; fight or make war.
The people were quick to take up arms to defend their freedom.
The President called on people to take up arms against poverty.
Contrast: LAY DOWN ONE'S ARMS.
Categories: {literary} {v. phr.}
Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms
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To section: T

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