switch-on

[ swich-on, -awn ]

noun

1. the act or process of switching on an ignition, light, appliance, etc.

switch on

verb

1. to cause (a device) to operate by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn on
2. informal.
   tr to produce (charm, tears, etc) suddenly or automatically
3. informal.
   tr (now slightly dated) to make up-to-date, esp regarding outlook, dress, etc
4. slang.
   tr to arouse emotionally or sexually
5. slang.
   intr to take or become intoxicated by drugs
6. slang.
   tr to introduce (someone) to drugs

Word History and Origins

Origin of switch-on¹

Noun use of verb phrase switch on

Idioms and Phrases

Produce as if operating by a control, as in She switched on the charm as soon as he walked in . [Mid-1900s] Also see switch off .

Example Sentences

The market's opening day coincided with the Belfast Christmas lights switch-on, with a number of roads in the city centre closed.

From BBC

The Bavarian-style market opened its doors to the public at noon on Saturday, hours before the city's Christmas light switch-on event.

From BBC

The switch-on is cancelled, the start of late-night shopping delayed for a week.

From BBC

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

Belfast City Council has advised motorists to expect disruption, including parking restrictions and traffic diversions, in the city centre this Saturday and in the early hours of Sunday in relation to the Christmas lights switch-on event at City Hall.

From BBC

Related Words

• affect
• arouse
• energize
• galvanize
• inflame
• inspire
• kindle
• prompt
• provoke
• raise
• rouse
• spark
• spur
• touch
• trigger
• whip up