take the field

1. Enter a competition, as in The country's best spellers took the field in the national spelling bee. This term originated around 1600 when it meant “to open a military campaign.” The field here is the field of battle. The term has been used figuratively almost as long, the first recorded use being in 1614.

Example Sentences

As USC’s defense took the field for the final drive, it felt inevitable that Illinois would march down the field to win.

From Los Angeles Times

Former England captain David Gower said Bird will be "remembered as one of the best umpires ever to take the field".

From BBC

When the Tower Buzzers take the field next year, “Top Gun” will turn 40.

From Los Angeles Times

"No-one takes the field thinking they are going to lose. Whatever the record, you still believe as a player."

From BBC

But this time, as Helton takes the field, he’ll bring something new along with him, something that had never set foot in the Coliseum before.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attack 
• battle 
• challenge 
• clash 
• meet 
• protect 
• resist