roll-on

[ rohl-on, -awn ]

adjective

1. packaged in a tubelike container one end of which is equipped with a rotating ball that dispenses and spreads the liquid content directly.

noun

1. a roll-on preparation:

   spray deodorants and roll-ons.

roll on

verb

1. used to express the wish that an eagerly anticipated event or date will come quickly

   roll on Saturday

adjective

1. (of a deodorant, lip gloss, etc) dispensed by means of a revolving ball fitted into the neck of the container

noun

1. a woman's foundation garment, made of elasticized material and having no fastenings
2. a liquid cosmetic, esp a deodorant, packed in a container having an applicator consisting of a revolving ball

Word History and Origins

Origin of roll-on¹

First recorded in 1945–50; adj., noun use of verb phrase roll on

Example Sentences

My signature scent is Palo Santo, the roll-on.

From Los Angeles Times

Shippers might opt to go with them because they can handle roll-on/roll-off ships — as Baltimore could — which are designed to carry cars, trucks, buses, trailers and other vehicles.

From Los Angeles Times

The expanding fleet includes amphibious warships and the use of civilian roll-on/roll-off transport ships for its military operations.

From Washington Times

Auto carriers like the burning ship are known as RoRos, which stands for roll-on/roll-off - the way cars are loaded and unloaded.

From Reuters

There were roll-on and off substitutes, with no caps awarded for the fixture.

From BBC

Related Words

• approach
• attain
• contact
• end
• go
• join
• lead
• make
• pass
• stand
• strike