cudgel

1. N-COUNT A cudgel is a thick, short stick that is used as a weapon. 粗短棍

2. PHRASE If you take up the cudgels for someone or something, you speak or fight in support of them. 支持[oft PHR 'for/against' n]

The president took up the cudgels in his acceptance speech. 总统在他的竞选提名演讲中极力为自己辩护。