Definition
To prepare yourself mentally or physically for something difficult or unpleasant that is about to happen.
Example
She braced herself for the cold water before diving in.
Show translation
She prepared herself for the cold water before diving in.
Etymology
From Old French *bracier* ("to embrace, to arm oneself"), derived from *brace* ("the two arms"), tracing back to Latin *bracchia*, plural of *bracchium* ("arm"). The sense of "to steady or prepare" evolved from the physical image of planting one's arms firmly against something.
Cultural note
The phrase "brace for impact" became widely familiar through aviation safety announcements and disaster movies, and is now used figuratively in everyday speech, journalism, and even financial headlines (e.g., "Markets brace for rate hike"). Note that *brace* is also a noun meaning a support device (dental brace, knee brace), so context is key.