There are a few confusing expressions out there and win one for the gripper is one of them. If you are curious about what this idiom actually means, or if you just want to learn how to use it correctly, we can help. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The meaning behind win one for the gripper is to win or complete something to honor another person. The phrase came about in an interesting fashion, which we will discuss later in the post. However, if you are looking to give someone encouragement, or spur them towards a goal, saying win one for the gripper is a good way to do it. The phrase is used in movies to trigger emotion and convey a sense of longing for those who have passed away.
Notre Dame fans and Regan fans alike have been known to use win one for the gripper in conversation. The phrase was a political slogan commonly used by Pres. Regan in which he encourages action on his behalf. It is also used in sports quite often as a way to inspire the team to perform well in honor of those who are no longer able to play.
Example Usage
“We are down to the final innings here team, let’s knock it out of the park and win one for the gripper”.
“I know the other team has a large book of plays, be we have heart. Let’s win one for the gripper and show them what we are about”.
“There comes a time when you have to man up and show your country pride, arm yourselves, and let’s win one for the gripper."
“I know we are in a tight race, but let’s win one for the gripper and secure our place on the election docket”.
Origin
The phrase win one for the Gripper can be traced back to the University of Notre Dame. In 1928, Knute Rockne gave an encouraging speech during the halftime break. That year was the worse season his team had experienced to date and he was looking for a way to inspire them to pay more effectively. One of the best players in Notre Dame History was George Gipp, tragically he passed away before his time at the age of 25. It is said that his last words were that he wants his team to win on his behalf. Knute used the phrase ‘win one for the Gipper” in his speech, which cemented its place in history. The phrase was further infused into American culture when Ronald Reagan used the phrase during a movie about George Gipp.
Phrases Similar to Win One For The Gripper
- Do it for the Gram
- One for the Gripper
- Do it for me
- It’s my dying wish
- In honor of
Phrases Opposite to Win One For The Gripper
- Do it for yourself
- Capture the goal
- Become a bright star
- Step into the spotlight
- All eyes are on you
What is the Correct Saying?
- The proper way to say the phrase is – get out there and win one for the Gripper.
Ways People May Incorrectly Say Win One For The Gripper
Some ways that win one for the gripper is used incorrectly are:
- There is nothing worse than being benched, so win one for the gripper buddy.
- He is my absolute favorite movie star, go win one for the gripper and get me some tickets.
- The losing team is the one that needs to win one for the gripper, not the champions.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Win One For The Gripper
Some ways that win one for the gripper is used correctly are:
- The underdogs are really trying their hardest, they should try to win one for the gripper and upset the rankings.
- Our star player can no longer be with us sadly, but in his honor, let’s get out there and win one for the gripper.
- The Democrats are down in the polls, but it is important that Republicans stay the course, let’s win one for the gripper and take over the Senate.
- The road ahead looks tough with so many seasoned players, but get out there and win one for the gripper anyway.