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gird

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gird up one's loins

Fig. to get ready, especially for hard work; to prepare oneself (for something). Well, I guess I had better gird up my loins and go to work. Somebody has to do something about the problem. Why don't you gird up your loins and do something?

See also: gird, loin, up

gird (up) your loins

  (humorous)

to prepare yourself mentally to do something difficult

Usage notes: This phrase comes from the Bible, where girding up your loins meant to tie up long, loose clothes so that they were more practical when you were working or travelling.

Both sides are presently girding their loins for the legal battles that lie ahead.

See also: gird, loin

gird one's loins

Also, gird up one's loins. Prepare oneself for action, as in I'm girding up my loins for that crucial interview. This expression comes from the Bible (Proverbs 31:17) and originally alluded to tucking up the traditional long robe into a girdle (that is, a belt) so it will not hamper physical activity. [c. 1600]

See also: gird, loin

gird (up) (one's) loins

To summon up one's inner resources in preparation for action.

See also: gird, loin