locked and loaded
Originating from military jargon, 'locked and loaded' describes a state of readiness, both literally in terms of firearms and figuratively in everyday situations.
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Definition
C1Military
(slang, technical)A firearm prepared for immediate use with ammunition in place and the mechanism set.
Example
- The soldiers ensured their rifles were locked and loaded before entering the combat zone.
B2General
(informal)Fully prepared and ready to take action in any situation.
Example
- She was locked and loaded for her big presentation at the conference.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "locked and loaded":
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