roll-on
adjective
packaged in a tubelike container one end of which is equipped with a rotating ball that dispenses and spreads the liquid content directly.
roll-on
American
[rohl-on, -awn]
/ ˈroʊlˌɒn, -ˌɔn /
adjective
noun
roll on
British
verb
adjective
noun
-
a woman's foundation garment, made of elasticized material and having no fastenings
-
a liquid cosmetic, esp a deodorant, packed in a container having an applicator consisting of a revolving ball
Etymology
Origin of roll-on
First recorded in 1945–50; adj., noun use of verb phrase roll on
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
Take for instance roll-on roll-off ferries that typically carry passengers, trucks and cargo, but are now built to defense standards and train with the military.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 7, 2025
My signature scent is Palo Santo, the roll-on.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 16, 2024
Automobiles are transported in vessels known as roll-on, roll-off ships.
From New York Times ● Mar. 28, 2024
Farmer suggests purchasing small bottles or roll-on essential oils, because they’re portable.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 24, 2023
The largest single grant, of £27m, has been guaranteed for a new roll-on, roll-off ferry for Fair Isle.
From BBC ● Jan. 18, 2023
Not so in Austin, where price drops roll on.
From Barron's ● May 31, 2026
As he watched Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum roll on the floor gripping his ankle, O’Malley’s worst fear—and professional opinion—was that Tatum had torn his Achilles tendon.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 22, 2026
Darren Ainslie, who popped in for a roll on his way to pick up waste in his van, complains that "everyone's skint".
From BBC ● Dec. 18, 2025
If the Dodgers do indeed roll on, then for another minute we will be awestruck by the relentless, money-fueled, dancing Dodger machine.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 18, 2025
Green, gray, black, these cargo trucks sway back and forth on bald tires, spitting out dirt and engine smoke as they roll on.
From "First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers" by Loung Ung
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