unlimber

adjective

1. not limber; inflexible; stiff.

verb (used with or without object)

2. limber1.

verb (used with object)

1. to detach (a gun) from its limber or prime mover.
2. to make ready for use or action.

verb (used without object)

3. to prepare for action.

noun

4. the act of changing a gun from traveling to firing position.

verb

1. (tr) to disengage (a gun) from its limber
2. to prepare (something) for use

v.1802, “to free (a gun) from its limber,” usually for the purpose of bringing it into action, from un- (2) + limber (n.). Figurative sense is attested from 1864. Related: Unlimbered; unlimbering.