Definition
Thoroughly equipped, as for a demanding task or confrontation.
Mentally prepared for a daunting situation or confrontation.
Origins
An allusion to equipping oneself with the sort of heavy weaponry suitable for hunting large animals.
In Context
- ""The whole Jap Navy," said Captain Sams, waving at a map of Japan on the wall behind him, "has been steaming across the Pacific loaded for bear.""
- "Every Elliott and Crawford and MacAllister is on the warpath, loaded for bear."
See Also
- lock and load
- arm to the teeth