put up one's dukes English

Meaning put up one's dukes meaning

What does put up one's dukes mean?

put up one's dukes verb

— (idiomatic) To raise one's clenched fists in front of one's body and stand in a threatening or defiant manner, in preparation for a fistfight.

— (idiomatic, by extension) To take firm action or to show oneself to be committed to such action, as when competing in a sporting event or other contest.