TURN ON Meaning and
Definition
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Turn on is a phrasal verb that has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used.
1. One of its most common meanings is to activate, start, or switch on a device, appliance, or mechanism. For instance, you can turn on the lights in a room, turn on a television, or turn on a computer. This typically involves using a button, switch, or other means to initiate the functioning of the item.
2. Turn on can also refer to causing or experiencing a sudden change in mood or behavior. For example, a certain song or movie might turn on an individual and make them feel happy or excited. Likewise, someone might turn on another person by behaving seductively or appealingly to arouse their interest or desire.
3. Additionally, turn on can be used to describe the act of trusting or relying on someone or something. When you turn on someone, it means you betray or act against their trust. Similarly, turning on a machine or system could imply that it malfunctions or ceases to function properly, resulting in disappointment or frustration.
4. In the context of drugs, turn on can mean to influence or cause someone to start using drugs, often illicit substances. It refers to initiating someone into drug use or altering their state of consciousness through narcotics.
The versatility of the phrase "turn on" highlights its adaptability to various situations and contexts, making it a versatile and widely used expression in everyday communication.
Top Common Misspellings for TURN ON *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for TURN ON
- turne on
- rurn on
- furn on
- gurn on
- yurn on
- 6urn on
- 5urn on
- tyrn on
- thrn on
- tjrn on
- tirn on
- t8rn on
- t7rn on
- tuen on
- tudn on
- tufn on
- tutn on
- tu5n on
- tu4n on
Etymology of TURN ON
The word "turn on" primarily comes from the combination of the verb "turn" and the preposition "on". The etymology lies in the evolution of the word "turn" and its various meanings over time.The word "turn" originated from the Old English word "turnian" or "tyrnan", which meant "revolve" or "rotate". It developed from the Proto-Germanic word "tornijaną" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*der-" meaning "to move in a circle". In its earlier usage, "turn" referred to the physical act of rotating or changing the position of something.Over time, "turn" began to be used metaphorically to describe changes in circumstances or events. Gradually, it started to encompass the idea of changing one's mental or emotional state. In this sense, "turn" represented a shift or transformation in perception, feeling, or behavior.
Idioms with the word TURN ON
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turn on its ear
The idiom "turn on its ear" means to completely overturn or radically change a situation or established belief in a surprising or unexpected way. It implies a disruption or upheaval that defies conventional expectations or norms.
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turn on sth
The idiom "turn on something" typically means to activate, switch, or operate a device or system. It can also refer to becoming excited or enthusiastic about something or someone.
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turn on sb
The idiom "turn on someone" means to betray or act disloyally towards someone, often by revealing their secrets or causing harm to them. It can also refer to suddenly becoming angry or aggressive towards someone.
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turn on its head
The idiom "turn on its head" refers to a radical or dramatic change in a situation or perspective, usually resulting in the complete reversal of its initial meaning, significance, or understanding.
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turn on heel
The idiom "turn on heel" means to abruptly change direction or reverse course, typically in a sudden or hasty manner. It often implies a quick and decisive change of mind or action.
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turn on a dime
The definition of the idiom "turn on a dime" means to change direction or take a new course quickly and effortlessly, often implying the ability to navigate tight spaces or adapt to unexpected situations without difficulty. It suggests a high level of agility, flexibility, or responsiveness.
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turn on one's heel
The idiom "turn on one's heel" typically means to make a sudden or abrupt about-face, especially when leaving or departing from a particular place or situation. It suggests a quick change in direction or decision.
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turn on the heat
The idiom "turn on the heat" means to intensify a situation or exert pressure on someone, typically in a competitive, confrontational, or demanding manner. It can also refer to taking action to increase the pace, excitement, or intensity of something.
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turn on your heel
The idiom "turn on your heel" refers to a quick and sudden change of direction or decision, often characterized by an abrupt shift in attitude or behavior. It implies the act of swiftly altering one's course, viewpoint, or response, typically as a result of a new information or strong emotions.
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turn on the waterworks
The idiom "turn on the waterworks" is used to describe someone who starts crying or becomes overly emotional, often in a deliberate or exaggerated manner, to gain sympathy or attention from others.
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turn on
To excite, arouse, or stimulate someone's interest or enthusiasm.
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turn on sm
To turn on someone usually means to make them feel attracted to you or interested in you in a sexual way.
Similar spelling words for TURN ON
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