prep.
- physically in contact with and supported by (a surface).
▸located somewhere in the general surface area of (a place).
▸on to.
▸in the possession of.
- forming a distinctive or marked part of the surface of.
- about; concerning.
▸having (something) as a basis.
- as a member of (a committee, jury, etc.).
- having (something) as a target, aim, or focus.
- having (something) as a medium for transmitting or storing information.
▸being broadcast by (a radio or television channel).
- in the course of (a journey).
▸while travelling in (a public service vehicle).
- indicating the day or part of a day during which an event takes place.
▸at the time of.
- engaged in.
- regularly taking (a drug or medicine).
- paid for by.
- added to.
adv.
- physically in contact with and supported by a surface.
▸(of clothing) being worn by a person.
- indicating continuation of a movement or action.
▸further forward; in an advanced state.
- (of an event) taking place or being presented.
▸due to take place as planned.
- (of an electrical appliance or power supply) functioning.
- (of an actor) on stage.
▸(of an employee) on duty.
n.
(also
on side)
Cricket the leg side.
Phrase
- be on about
Brit. informal talk about tediously and at length. - be on at
Brit. informal nag or grumble at. - be on to
informal - be close to uncovering an illegal or undesirable activity engaged in by (someone).
-
(be on to something)
have an idea that is likely to lead to an important discovery.
- on and on
continually; at tedious length. - on to
moving to a location on the surface of (something) or aboard (a bus, train, etc.).
Etymology
OE on, an, of Gmc origin.