take the field

take the field (third-person singular simple present takes the field, present participle taking the field, simple past took the field, past participle taken the field)

1. (literally, figuratively) To go out onto the playing field.

   Synonym: take to the field

   The national anthem having been played, both teams took the field and prepared for play.

2. (figuratively) To begin military operations.

   Synonym: take to the field

3. (horse racing) To stake one's money against the favourite, taking the chances of the field against the chance of one horse.