# have one's back up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-ones-back-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be angry or defensive.

## Examples

- She has her back up because you criticized her work.
- I tried to offer some helpful advice, but he immediately had his back up and refused to listen.
- The manager sensed the team had their backs up regarding the new policy, so he scheduled a meeting to address their concerns directly.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.