1.  Compose or write out in a set form, as in The lawyer drew up the contract. [First half of 1600s]
2.  Arrange in order or formation, put in position, as in The band-leader drew up his players, or The officer drew up the troops. [c. 1600]
3.  Bring or come to a halt, as in The car drew up to the curb. [Early 1800s]
4.  draw oneself up. Assume an erect posture to express dignity or indignation. For example, She drew herself up and protested. [Mid-1800s]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.