go to the mat

phrase

: to make an all-out combative effort (as in support of a position)

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of go to the mat was in 1908

Rhymes for go to the mat

See All Rhymes for go to the mat

Browse Nearby Words

go to (the) expense
go to the mat
go to the stake for/over
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Go to the mat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/go%20to%20the%20mat. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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