On — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of On
On (preposition)
- —used as a function word to indicate position in contact with and supported by the top surface of
- —used as a function word to indicate position in or in contact with an outer surface
- —used as a function word to indicate position in close proximity with
On (adverb)
- in or into a position of contact with an upper surface especially so as to be positioned for use or operation
- in or into a position of being attached to or covering a surface; especially, in or into the condition of being worn
- forward or at a more advanced point in space or time
On (adjective)
- engaged in an activity or function (such as a dramatic role)
- being in operation
- placed so as to permit operation
On (abbreviation)
- Ontario
On (preposition) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
having to do with
"books on sports heroes are my favorite reading matter"
-
in or into contact with
"don't lean on that ladder—you'll knock it over"
On (adverb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
toward a point ahead in space or time
"we really must move on now if we're going to end this meeting before midnight"
-
toward or at a point lying in advance in space or time
"he's getting on in years and doesn't see or hear as well as he used to"
On (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
being in effective operation
"please don't leave the sanding machine on if you're not going to be near it"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for On
The most common words with a similar meaning to On:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for On
Words with the opposite meaning of On:
Near Antonyms of On
Origin & Etymology of On
Middle English an, on, preposition & adverb, from Old English; akin to Old High German ana on, Greek ana up, on
First known use: before 12th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for On
- CEFR level: A1 English Vocabulary — Page 12
- Topics: Grammar Function Words
Words & Phrases Containing On
Frequently Asked Questions about On
What does "On" mean?
"On" means —used as a function word to indicate position in contact with and supported by the top surface of. As an a preposition, an adverb, an adjective and an abbreviation, it is defined as: —used as a function word to indicate position in contact with and supported by the top surface of. It has 5 distinct senses.
What is another word for "On"?
Other words for "On" include about, apropos, apropos of, as far as, as for, as regards, as to and concerning. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "On" you intend.
What are different ways to say "On"?
There are 71 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "On". Common alternatives include about, apropos, apropos of, as far as, as for, as regards, as to, concerning, of and regarding.
What is the opposite of "On"?
Antonyms of "On" include broken, dead, inactive, inoperative, kaput, nonactivated, nonfunctional and nonfunctioning. Near antonyms include backward, back, behind and rearward.
How do you use "On" in a sentence?
Examples of "On" in a sentence: "books on sports heroes are my favorite reading matter"; "don't lean on that ladder—you'll knock it over"; "we really must move on now if we're going to end this meeting before midnight".
Is "On" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"On" can be used as a preposition, an adverb, an adjective and an abbreviation, depending on the context.
Is "On" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As an A1-level word, "On" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.
How do you pronounce "On"?
"On" is pronounced /ˈȯn/.