en garde
The term "en garde" is French for "on guard" and is used both in fencing and figuratively to signal readiness.
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Definition
B2Fencing
(technical, sports)A command to assume the ready position before a bout begins.
Example
- The referee shouted 'en garde' before the match started.
B2General
(figurative)A state of being alert or prepared for a potential challenge or threat.
Example
- She was always en garde, ready for any unexpected news.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "en garde":