The term 'put up a fight' can be summarized by the crossword solutions of BATTLE, REBEL, RESIST, and resisted. BATTLE is an armed conflict between two or more parties, usually countries or governments. REBEL is to oppose or take arms against an authority or government. RESIST is to withstand the force or effect of something. Resisted is to have withstood the force or effect of something. Therefore, the term 'put up a fight' can be interpreted as opposing an authority or government with force or effect.