draw on

British  

verb

1. (intr, preposition) to use or exploit (a source, fund, etc)

   to draw on one's experience

2. (intr, adverb) to come near

   the time for his interview drew on

3. (tr, preposition) to withdraw (money) from (an account)

4. (tr, adverb) to put on (clothes)

5. (tr, adverb) to lead further; entice or encourage

   the prospect of nearing his goal drew him on

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draw on Idioms  

1. Approach, as in As evening draws on, we'll make our way back to the house . [First half of 1500s]

2. Put on a piece of clothing, as in She drew on her gloves . [Early 1700s]

3. Also, draw upon . Make use of something or someone. For example, This dictionary draws on many different sources , or The chairman was good at drawing upon the various members for their expertise . [Mid-1600s]

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Example Sentences

She is not afraid to draw on her own painful, personal experiences to deliver a point.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

Inside these cells, fat is packed into structures called lipid droplets, which act as fuel reserves the body can draw on when needed, such as during fasting between meals.

From Science Daily • Apr. 30, 2026

Rivian now expects to draw on the loan by early 2027.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

He says he was able to draw on his 60 years as an actor, and take a gentle approach with his cast and crew – seasoned actors and brand new talent alike.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

I try to draw on the anger I felt last night.

From "Legend" by Marie Lu