General
put up your dukes
What does put up your dukes mean?
A challenge to a fistfight — literally to raise your 'dukes' (fists).
"Alright tough guy, put up your dukes."
Origin
Older American/NYC slang; 'dukes' for fists, possibly from Cockney rhyming slang, long used in New York.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'put up your dukes' mean?
It's a challenge to a fistfight — literally to raise your 'dukes,' meaning your fists.
Why are fists called 'dukes'?
'Dukes' for fists is older American slang, possibly from Cockney rhyming slang, long used in New York.
Is 'put up your dukes' still used?
It's a somewhat old-fashioned, playful way to challenge someone to fight, but still recognized.
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