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

See Examples For:

try on

First, though, they participated in the same kinds of experiments that grade-schoolers might try on a field trip.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026

While investors could try on their own to both achieve broad market exposure and dodge certain companies, doing so can be expensive.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 9, 2026

The morning before Caitlin was admitted into hospital for the final time, she, Grace and Neve went to try on bridesmaids' dresses together.

From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026

Nearby, two girls try on cowboy hats available in vibrant hues.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 13, 2026

“So we’ve just got to try on the hat!”

From "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling

Related Words

• check out
• wear