Phrase guide
Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.
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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.
verb
To prepare oneself for something demanding.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: idiomatic, intransitive
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Synonyms: brace oneself, eat one's Wheaties, roll up one's sleeves, shape up, steel oneself, suck it up
Antonyms: none provided
History
Likely a Hebraism, often used in the King James Bible (e.g., 2 Kings 4:29). Literally referred to the need to strap a belt around one's waist, i.e. when getting up, in order to avoid the cloak falling off; or otherwise before battle, to free the legs for running.
Across languages
8 source translations are retained for this English entry.
