Put up your dukes Meaning in English
expression
Definition
An old-fashioned, informal expression telling someone to raise their fists and get ready to fight, usually said playfully or as a challenge.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal and considered old-fashioned. Mostly used jokingly, not for real fights. 'Dukes' is old slang for fists. Common in playful arguments, movies, or cartoon fights, rarely in serious contexts.
Example Sentences
"Put up your dukes!" the boy shouted before the game started.
basic
He laughed and said, "Are you really going to put up your dukes?"
basic
The cartoon characters started to put up their dukes before the silly fight.
basic
"C'mon, man, put up your dukes!" he joked, raising his fists playfully.
natural
Whenever they disagreed, they'd pretend to put up their dukes like boxers.
natural
"No way I'm fighting you, even if you put up your dukes," she teased.
natural