on one's feet

on (one's) feet

1. Literally, standing upright. We've been on our feet for over an hour—let's find somewhere to sit for a while.

2. In a healthy or stable condition, usually after a period of illness or misfortune. I was out with the flu for a week, but I'm back on my feet now. After bringing in some new management, the business is finally on its feet again.

3. Quickly and extemporaneously. This job requires you to think on your feet and make decisions at the drop of a hat.

See also: feet, on

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

on one's feet

In addition to the idiom (see the next entry) on one's feet, also see dead on one's feet; fall (land) on one's feet; get to one's feet; set one back on one's feet; stand on one's feet; think on one's feet.

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on one's feet

1. Standing, as in I'm tired-I've been on my feet all day. [Mid-1400s] Also see get to one's feet.

2. Also, back on one's feet. Healthy, returned to good health, as in I hope you get back on your feet very soon. [c. 1800]

See also: feet, on

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.