intransitive. figurative. To support, assist, protect, defend (a person, a cause, etc.); to side with, uphold the interests of, be faithful or…

To make a speech or plea in place of or on behalf of (a person); in later use esp. to plead for. Also, to make representations concerning (a thing)…

intransitive. To uphold, defend (a cause, etc.); to support, take the side of (a person). Formerly also with adverbial complement.

transitive. To cause to continue in a specified state, relation, or position, or at a specified level or number; †to secure the continuance of (a…

intransitive. to stand up for. To speak or act in support or defence of (a person, a cause, etc.). Cf. to stick up for at stick, v.1 phrasal verbs 1.

intransitive. to stand out for: to speak or act in support or defence of (a person, cause, etc.). Cf. to stand up for at phrasal verbs 1.

intransitive. To side with or support (a person); to maintain or uphold (a cause, interest, etc.); to remain faithful or loyal to. Now somewhat rare.

transitive. To defend, support, or stand up for; to act as an advocate for; to justify; to countenance. Obsolete.

intransitive. With for: to strive or contend on behalf of (a person); to stand up for. Also to stickle up for. Obsolete.

intransitive. colloquial. to stick up for: to support or defend (a person, cause, etc.). Cf. to stand up for at stand, v. phrasal verbs 1.

transitive. To act as champion of.

figurative. To maintain the cause of, stand up for, uphold, support, back, defend, advocate.

figurative, esp. in to take up the cudgels: to engage in a vigorous contest or debate (for, in defence of, on behalf of). So †to give upor cross t…