at the wheel

Idioms  

1. In command, in control. For example, Ann hated being told what to do; she wanted to be at the wheel by herself. The analogy here is to the steering wheel of an automobile or other vehicle, or the helm of a vessel. For a synonym, see at the helm.

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

at the wheel

And in life, they let each other take turns at the wheel, planning events and dates with a notable regard for the other person.

From Salon ● Jul. 5, 2026

The retail ‘ants’ at the wheel are driving dangerously.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 9, 2026

At least nine autonomous-truck companies are operating in Southern and South-Central states, especially Texas, but many still have human monitors at the wheel, or are being used only in limited tests.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 8, 2026

“Herding cats,” said George Kulakowski of Huntington Beach, at the wheel of a 1931 Ford Model A Panel Delivery truck.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 6, 2026

As Mae and Tuck rolled past, the young man grinned and said to the driver of the Hudson, who lounged at the wheel, “Looky there. In from the country for a big time.”

From "Tuck Everlasting" by Natalie Babbit