Meaning of put up one's dukes | Babel Free

Definitions

1. 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
2. To take firm action or to show oneself to be committed to such action, as when competing in a sporting event or other contest.
   broadly, idiomatic

Examples

“The proceedings of the State Democratic Convention, held at Turner Hall, yesterday, were disgraceful enough to bring a blush even to the cheek of a Democrat. "Liar," "snide," "put up your dukes, if you want to fight," catcalls, hooting, and yelling filled up a greater part of the deliberations of the august body.”

“Well you're a real tough cookie with a long history Of breaking little hearts like the one in me That's okay, let's see how you do it Put up your dukes and let's get down to it”

“The NBC reporter who came to the match on Wednesday told Lafferty "Come on, put up your dukes, we want to see some blood."”

CEFR level