carrying-on

[ kar-ee-ing-on, -awn ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural car·ry·ings-on.

1. irresponsible, irritating, self-indulgent, or overwrought behavior:

   The baby-sitter was exhausted from the child's noisy carrying-on.

2. improper or immoral behavior.

carrying-on

noun

1. unconventional or questionable behaviour
2. excited or flirtatious behaviour, esp when regarded as foolish

Word History and Origins

Origin of carrying-on¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

When she got going, laughing and carrying-on, what wouldn't she say, right out before anybody!

From Project Gutenberg

There was a newly-married couple in our car, and of course lots of us were more or less interested in their carrying-on.

From Project Gutenberg

They always seem to be happy, singing and “carrying-on” with the utmost abandon.

From Project Gutenberg

What's all this we hear about your carrying-on this morning?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• chronic
• enduring
• lasting