The expression “loaded for bear”means that the person is well-prepared. It probably originated during colonial times when muskets, gun powder, horses, and dogs were used to hunt for meat. In the present time, it means well prepared to fight, debate, discuss, take a test, give a speech, or provide evidence and testimony in the prosecution of a law suit. I first heard this expression when I was a child growing up in upstate New York. But I haven’t heard it in the midwest, or the east, or the far west at all. I may have used it myself when I was in the deep South.

1. A head of white-blond hair resembling tow.

2. A person with such hair.

3. A sandbar or low-lying alluvial island in a river, especially one with a stand of trees

n.

A head of white-blond hair resembling tow. (tow-the fiber of flax, hemp, or jute).

A person with such hair.

tow’head’ed adj.