Meaning
To remain prepared and preserve your resources or options until the right moment to act. The phrase usually recommends patience, readiness, and restraint rather than immediate confrontation.
Origin
In the age of gunpowder weapons, damp powder could fail to ignite. Keeping it dry was a practical requirement for soldiers. The saying is traditionally associated with Oliver Cromwell and the phrase about trusting in God while keeping one’s powder dry, but the exact historical wording and attribution are uncertain.
Examples
The market is uncertain, so we’re keeping our powder dry for now.
Keep your powder dry until we know what the competition is planning.
She decided to keep her powder dry rather than respond immediately.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Keep your powder dry' mean?
To remain prepared and preserve your resources or options until the right moment to act. The phrase usually recommends patience, readiness, and restraint rather than immediate confrontation.