1
general::
1. Lose a conflict, be defeated; also, yield. For example, In spite of their efforts, they went to the wall, or When it's a matter of family versus friends, friends must go to the wall. [Late 1500s] 2. Fail in business, go bankrupt. For example, First one branch and then another did poorly, and the store finally went to the wall. [First half of 1800s] 3. Take an extreme position, hold out to the end. For example, The President went to the wall to defend his choice to head the FBI. For a synonym, see GO TO THE MAT.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): go to the wall (on something)
to take on great risk or to hold out to the very last on some issue. (See also push someone to the wall.) • I will go to the wall on this point. • This is a very important matter and I will go to the wall if necessary.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs