# take up the cudgels

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-up-the-cudgels
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

to make a defence for someone or something; to intercede supportively.

## Examples

- She decided to take up the cudgels for her friend.
- When the manager unfairly criticized the new intern, the supervisor took up the cudgels to defend her performance.
- Recognizing the injustice of the new policy, the lawyer felt compelled to take up the cudgels on behalf of the marginalized community members.

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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.