expression, godan verb (-ru)
take up one's chopsticks; start eating
A set phrase meaning to begin a meal, literally 'to take up one's chopsticks'. Used in formal or literary contexts.
皆が席に着くと、彼は静かに箸を取った。
When everyone was seated, he quietly took up his chopsticks.
どうぞお先に箸を取って
Please go ahead and start eating.