try on

British  

verb

1. to put on (an article of clothing) to find out whether it fits or is suitable

2. informal to attempt to deceive or fool someone

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noun

1. informal an action or statement made to test out a person's gullibility, tolerance, etc

try on Idioms  

1. Test the fit or look of a garment by putting it on, as in Do you want to try on this dress? This expression is also put as try on for size , which is sometimes used figuratively, as in The teacher wanted to try the new method on for size before agreeing to use it . [Late 1600s]

2. Test the effectiveness or acceptability of something, as in The actors decided to try on the new play out of town . [Late 1800s] Also see try out .

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Example Sentences

In December, the full-back helped Quins defeat Bristol Bears at Allianz Stadium, scoring another individual try on her return to the home of English rugby.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

"Honestly, he's beaten him in a phone booth. There aren't many players that can score that try on the planet, it's a great moment. He's building a highlights reel quickly."

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

“Company,” a reggae tune with a guest appearance from Jamaican dancehall vocalist Buju Banton, gives Ms. Lennox an opportunity to try on a sing-song melodic guise and it suits her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

Both sides then spurned chances, with George Turner inches away from a try on his first league start, before Saints levelled the scores.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2026

“Now let’s try on these robes,” she said.

From "The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge" by M.T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin

Related Words

• check out
• wear