English

Adjective

loaded for bear ‎(not comparable)

1. (idiomatic) Thoroughly equipped, as for a demanding task or confrontation.
   • 1955, Edward Latimer Beach, Run Silent, Run Deep, ch. 6:

     "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."

2. (idiomatic) Mentally prepared for a daunting situation or confrontation.
   • 1917, Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne's House of Dreams, ch. 35:

     Every Elliott and Crawford and MacAllister is on the warpath, loaded for bear.