on (something)
1. Taking medication of some kind. Is the patient on anything that might interact negatively with the treatment drugs? My doctor put me on steroids to treat my hay fever.
2. Experiencing the physiological or psychological effects of some illicit or recreational drug. He's acting so weird. Do you think he's on drugs? I watched the movie on acid, and it was one of the most mind-blowing experiences of my life! The athlete was disqualified when it came to light that he was on speed during the race.
on medication
Currently taking medical drugs that have been prescribed by a doctor. Are you on any medication that would inhibit your ability to operate heavy machinery? I'm willing to go talk to a therapist, but I don't want to be put on medication, got it?
on something
set phrase On some drug or medication, especially one that is altering one's behavior, perception, or cognitive abilities. He's acting so weird. Do you think he's on something?
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
*(up)on someone
Fig. to be someone's obligation or responsibility. (*Typically: be ~; lie ~.) The obligation is upon you to settle this. The major part of the responsibility is on you.
*on someone or something
[incriminating or harmful information] about someone or something. (*Typically: get something ~; have something ~; give someone something~.) I've gotten something on Albert that would really shock you. She is trying to get something on her husband so she can divorce him.
on something
1. taking a medication. I am on an antibiotic for my chest cold. I want you to be on this drug for another week.
2. taking an illegal drug or controlled substance and acting strangely. What is the matter with that kid? Is he on something? She acted as if she were on barbiturates or something.
on medication
taking medicine for a current medical problem. I can't drive the car since I am on medication. He is on medication and hopes to be well soon.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
on
/at the dot Exactly at the appointed time; punctual or punctually: arrived at nine o'clock on the dot.
on
/at the double1. Immediately.
2. In double time.
on
/in behalf of1. As the agent of; on the part of.
2. For the benefit of; in the interest of.
on
/in the street1. Without a job; idle.
2. Without a home; homeless.
3. Out of prison; at liberty.
on
/into/down the wind Nautical In the same or nearly the same direction as the wind.
on
/under pain of Subject to the penalty of (a specified punishment, such as death).
on
/upon (one's) hands In one's possession, often as an imposed responsibility or burden: Now they have the grandchildren on their hands.
on
/upon request When asked for: References are available on request.
on
/upon the heels of1. Directly behind.
2. Immediately following.
on
(one's)/the way In the process of coming, going, or traveling: She is on her way out the door. Winter is on the way.
on
its/someone's ear In a state of amazement, excitement, or uproar: a controversial movie that set the film industry on its ear.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.