grow a pair

grow a pair

vulgar slang To start acting in a strong, confident, and/or courageous manner, especially after having previously failed to do so. The phrase is short for "grow a pair of balls (testicles)," but is not exclusively applied to males. Often used as an imperative. You need to grow a pair and ask your boss for a raise already! Janet, I know you're nervous about asking Tom out on a date, but just grow a pair and give it a shot!
See also: grow, pair
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • have a pair
  • strap on a pair
  • put up a struggle
  • venture forth
  • venture into
  • venture into (some place)
  • (as) sure as eggs (is eggs)
  • a penny for them
  • great minds
  • great minds think alike