loaded for bear
The idiom "loaded for bear" originates from 1800s hunting culture, where hunters would prepare heavily to confront a bear, symbolizing a high level of readiness.
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Definition
C1General
(idiomatic, informal)Fully prepared and equipped to handle a challenging situation or confrontation.
Example
- With all the research done and tools in hand, she was loaded for bear before the big presentation.
- The team was loaded for bear, ready to tackle the toughest competitor in the league.
C1Psychological
(idiomatic, informal)Mentally prepared for a daunting or difficult situation, often with determination or aggression.
Example
- He woke up loaded for bear, ready to face whatever challenges the day might bring.
- Knowing the debate would be tough, she entered the room loaded for bear.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "loaded for bear":
locked and loadedload uplock and loadbear hangpoke the bearblack bearbear catbear gardenfront loadload of bullarms bearerbring to bearloading bay