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

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

“There were a few things I would have wanted to try on and maybe even purchase,” Kristovich said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 16, 2026

“First- and second-graders who try on glasses the first time are blown away because they just thought that’s how the world looked,” Carroll said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 4, 2026

She said pupils will make an appointment to come to the boutique, to try on as many outfits as they want, find something, get it reserved, then wear it at prom.

From BBC ● Mar. 28, 2026

Mother sits in a chair in the dressing lounge and I choose the first LadyJDay suit I try on, light blue poplin with a round-collar jacket.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett

Related Words

• check out
• wear