loaded for bear
I think I've been witness to a rampant takeover of the popular imagination by a three-word phrase. Two weeks ago, my boss described himself as being "loaded for bear." I had no idea what he meant, but I determined from the context that it meant something along the lines of being ready for an altercation. I imagined a hunter with a big ol' gun facing a big ol' bear. Now my boss has a superhuman command of the English language, so it is not unusual for him to use obscure vocabulary that gives me pause. However, within the past week, I have heard this phrase used on television, seen it used in print, and then yesterday, heard it used again by an acquaintance. Coincidence? I think not.
loaded for bear
Fully prepared for action; also, spoiling for a fight. For example, Bill tackled his new sales route loaded for bear, or When Martin was three hours late, his wife was loaded for bear. This term, dating from the mid-1800s, alludes to the heavy charge of powder or lead that hunters use for large animals like a bear.
1 comment:
This makes me wonder where your boss heard it (which television or radio program) in order to think, "Hey, I think I'll use that.".
I have not heard that one used yet, but I will think of you when I hear it.
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