turn on - Definition & Meaning | Lingo Dictionary

turn on

to cause a machine, device, or system to start working or flowing, usually by pressing a button or turning a switchto cause a machine, device, or system to start working or flowing, usually by pressing a button or turning a switch

Examples

Before using the printer, make sure to turn it on and check for paper.
Can you help me turn on the TV?I can't find the remote.
It's hot in the room; let's turn on the air conditioner.

Synonyms

activate start turn on switch on

Antonyms

1 / 5

turn on

Third Person

turns on

Present Participle

turning on

Past Tense

turned on

Past Participle

turned on

1

to cause a machine, device, or system to start working or flowing, usually by pressing a button or turning a switch

transitive

Before using the printer, make sure to turn it on and check for paper.
Can you help me turn on the TV?I can't find the remote.
It's hot in the room; let's turn on the air conditioner.
The chef asked the kitchen staff to turn on the oven to prepare the meal.
The mechanic had to turn on the engine to diagnose the problem.

Synonyms:

activate start switch on

Antonyms:

2

to become unfriendly or hostile toward someone or something

transitive

She turned on her longtime friend when she discovered the betrayal.
He turned on his business partner when the deal fell through.
The relationship turned on them after a series of misunderstandings.
The group turned on the newcomer for no apparent reason.

3

to rely on external conditions or factors

transitive

The decision to invest in the stock market turns entirely on market analysis.
The effectiveness of the strategy turns solely on timely execution.
The success of the campaign turns solely on public support.
Whether we can proceed with the expansion turns entirely on the market trends.

Synonyms:

depend on hinge upon ride hinge on devolve on depend upon

4

to make someone feel excited or stimulated

transitive

The music turned the crowd on, and the dance floor came to life.
His passionate speech turned on the audience, inspiring a standing ovation.
The new product launch turned on the market, generating buzz and excitement.
The unexpected news turned on the entire office, sparking energy and enthusiasm.
The thrilling movie turned on the viewers, leaving them on the edge of their seats.

Synonyms:

agitate excite rouse charge up commove charge

Antonyms:

5

to cause someone to feel sexual attraction or excitement

Her confidence really turns him on.
I can't believe how quickly he got turned on by that compliment.
The way she talks about her passions always turns me on.
He didn’t realize that his humor would turn her on.
That outfit she wore last night?Totally turned him on.