Menu Close

What is the origin of the phrase loaded for bear?

What is the origin of the phrase loaded for bear?

The idiom loaded for bear originated in North America in the 1800s. The phrase was originally used literally, to mean to load one’s firearm with enough power to kill a bear. Though people seldom hunt for bear anymore, the popularity of the idiom loaded for bear had continued to grow.

What is the meaning of the phrase loaded for bear?

US, informal. : prepared to deal with attacks or criticism : prepared to fight or argue She went into the interview loaded for bear.

Is loaded for bear a saying?

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.

What does Loaded mean in slang?

3 chiefly US slang : intoxicated by alcohol or drugs especially : drunk They got loaded at the party. …

How do you get someone’s goat?

To make someone annoyed or angry: “Gavin may seem unflappable, but I know a way to get his goat.” This expression comes from a tradition in horse racing. Thought to have a calming effect on high-strung thoroughbreds, a goat was placed in the horse’s stall on the night before the race.

Why do people use loaded words?

Often, loaded language exists as a substitute for other words or phrases, one more negative or positive than the other depending on the circumstance. A loaded word is chosen because the speaker or writer believes it’ll be more persuasive than an alternate neutral word.

What does it mean when someone says you’re loaded?

Slang. having a great deal of money; rich. under the influence of alcohol; drunk; intoxicated.

What is the meaning of loaded for bear?

Top definition. Loaded for Bear. To be prepared, mentally and/or physically, for extreme opposition; typically used in reference to an aggressive or potentially violent situation. The phrase originates with American hunters and woodsmen in regions frequented by the brown bear.

What kind of weapons are loaded for bear?

You’re loaded for bear on the munitions stores inventory, including five types of non-offensive equipment and 22 different weapons types, including the new Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), and Standoff Land Attack Missile (SLAM) ground weapons. NEW YORK–Radio Shack came to town last week loaded for bear.

When did Max Shulman use loaded for bear?

Max Shulman used it in Rally round the Flag Boys! (1957), “The O’Sheel woman is coming in loaded for bear this time.” (you) wanna make something of it? Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster’s page for free fun content . References in periodicals archive?

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Lxb5O352pbNQk5IBU7Hmw