at the high port

== English == === Pronunciation === === Prepositional phrase === at the high port (idiomatic, military, of a weapon) Held with two hands as in "port arms", but carried well above the head. The high port is often the position taught for running (at the double) or charging. (idiomatic, by extension) Sticking up; (of hair, etc) standing up at a marked angle. (idiomatic, by extension, of anything, not just a weapon) Held in front of the body, especially in an authoritative or aggressive way. (idiomatic, slang, by extension) At once, quickly; unhesitatingly, vigorously. (idiomatic) Positioned ready for immediate use. ==== Synonyms ==== (positioned ready for immediate use): at the ready === References === James Alfred Moss, Manual of Military Training, (G. Banta Pub. Co., 1917) page 192, which notes: "In the charge the men are taught to run at the "High Port" (the rifle is held as in "Port arms," but is carried well above the head)." Partridge, Dictionary of Slang, 7th Ed.