English Lexicon

Up in arms

/ˌʌp ɪn ˈɑːmz/
idiomadjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #4500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As idiom
  1. 1

    Angry and protesting vigorously about something.

    "Local residents are up in arms over the proposed closure of the community center."
  2. 2

    Ready to fight or rebel against authority.

    "The union members were up in arms after management announced sudden pay cuts."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from military usage dating back to the late 16th century, where 'to be in arms' meant to be physically equipped with weapons and ready for battle. Over time, the phrase evolved metaphorically to describe individuals or groups rising up in vigorous protest, anger, or rebellion against a policy or situation without necessarily taking up physical weaponry.

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