Recently, you might have noticed Canadians holding signs that say ‘elbows up’ — but what’s the story behind this phrase?
Canada has found itself in a tariff dispute with the United States, with President Donald Trump threatening to impose 25 percent tariff increases on Canadian imports.
The situation between the two neighboring countries became quite tense when Trump announced plans for 50 percent tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. This was in response to Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s decision to introduce a 25 percent surcharge on electricity exports to the United States.
The threats led to turmoil in the U.S. stock market, although both Trump and Ford have since retracted their positions. Despite this, Trump’s initial 25 percent tariff increase on Canadian steel and aluminum took effect today (March 12).
In an attempt to bypass these unpopular tariff hikes, Trump proposed that Canada become the 51st state of America — an idea that was poorly received by Canadian officials and citizens alike.
Amidst these developments, Canadians have shown resilience, using the phrase ‘elbows up’ to signify their stance.
This expression gained further attention when Mike Myers, the Canadian actor known for his role in Shrek, mouthed it on Saturday Night Live while wearing a t-shirt declaring that ‘Canada is not for sale’.
Watch the moment here:
Additionally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used the phrase in his farewell speech on Sunday.
Trudeau remarked: “We’re a country that will be diplomatic when we can, but fight when we must. Elbows up!”
But what is the origin of this saying? It seems to be linked to sports.
According to The Independent, the phrase is associated with Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, who would raise his elbows during games to protect himself — drawing a parallel to Canada’s current need to defend itself against the U.S.
Supporting this, Reddit users have recently engaged in discussions about the term on the platform.
In one thread, an individual from India inquired about the meaning of ‘elbows up’, and a response explained: “Hockey reference. When you learn to play hockey you’re taught to keep your ‘elbows up’ as a defense mechanism — signaling you’re ready to protect or to fight back.”
“It’s a hockey reference about defending yourself from another player,” another user added.
Someone else humorously stated: “If you encounter a Canadian saying, it’s most likely from hockey, curling or weather.”