Canadian rallying cry 'elbows up' added to Oxford English Dictionary

A popular Canadian rallying cry, "elbows up," has officially entered the lexicon, having been added to the Oxford English Dictionary by Oxford University Press. The term gained prominence during a surge of Canadian patriotism last year, fueled by the "Buy Canadian" movement amidst a trade war initiated by then-U.S. President Donald Trump.

Gordie Howe, the legendary hockey player known for his physical and aggressive style, popularized the phrase. His defensive stance, with elbows raised, earned him the nickname "Mr. Elbows." The Oxford English Dictionary defines the term as "used to indicate willingness to (aggressively) defend oneself or fight back. Frequently as a modifier."

This latest update to the dictionary also includes other terms with Canadian connections. "Cashspiel," a curling term for a competition offering cash prizes, and "point form," described as "chiefly Canadian" for presenting information in concise lists, were also added. Additionally, the Cree term "kokum," meaning grandmother, and North American terms like "grunt" (a fruit dessert) and "kitty-corner" (diagonally opposite) were included.

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used to indicate willingness to (aggressively) defend oneself or fight back. Frequently as a modifier.