stand and deliver


stand and deliver

1. obsolete A threat made by highwaymen (muggers operating along the King's highway) in 18th-century England, demanding the traveler halt and surrender their money or goods. A group of bandits descended on the caravan of travelers, the leader stopping in front of the first carriage and shouting, "Stand and deliver!"2. To stand firm and perform one's duties to the best of one's abilities. No one believes our team can win, so now it's up to us to stand and deliver.See also: and, deliver, stand

stand and deliver

to give up something to someone who demands it. (Originally used by highway robbers asking for passengers' valuables.) And when the tax agent says "Stand and deliver" you have to be prepared to pay what is demanded. The robber stopped the coach and demanded of Lady Ellen, "Stand and deliver!"See also: and, deliver, stand