to cause (a device) to operate by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn on
informal (tr) to produce (charm, tears, etc) suddenly or automatically
informal (tr) (now slightly dated) to make up-to-date, esp regarding outlook, dress, etc
slang (tr) to arouse emotionally or sexually
slang (intr) to take or become intoxicated by drugs
slang (tr) to introduce (someone) to drugs
Noun use of verb phrase switch on
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
And up until three years ago, she used to host a party for more than 80 guests on the evening of "Courtenay's switch-on".
From BBC ● Nov. 26, 2025
She said the switch-on fun would also feature fireworks and refreshments.
From BBC ● Dec. 7, 2024
The switch-on is cancelled, the start of late-night shopping delayed for a week.
From BBC ● Nov. 22, 2023
The stage was set in Market Square for the Christmas lights switch-on, an event that draws thousands for music, merriment and a night of festive shopping.
From BBC ● Nov. 22, 2023
Hundreds of people headed to a North Yorkshire town's seafront to see the light switch-on of its "fishtive" Christmas tree.
From BBC ● Dec. 4, 2022
How he's still able to keep himself conditioned physically, and switch on mentally to play a five-setter like this, is astonishing - especially given how little tennis he has been playing outside of the Slams.
From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026
As he played the instrumental at the end of a session, Madonna said, "Just switch on the microphone, I think I've got an idea," he told Norton.
From BBC ● Jun. 26, 2026
His approach to business flips the switch on the classic “Field of Dreams” mantra.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
“We’re not pulling a bait and switch on you,” Hoover told The Times.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 4, 2026
As he worked, he inadvertently flipped the switch on when the flashlight was pointing at Luxa and Henry.
From "Gregor the Overlander" by Suzanne Collins
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
