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cast on

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cast on

1. Make the first stitches in knitting, putting them on the needle, as in Once you learn how to cast on, you can use either simple or complicated stitches. [Mid-1800s]

2. Hastily put on clothes, as in He cast on his coat and ran out. This usage is dying out. [Early 1800s]

See also: cast, on

cast on

v.

1. To cause something to fall upon or come into contact with something: The moon cast its light on the snowy countryside.

2. To cause or give rise to some critical valuation about something or someone: These facts cast doubt on the suspect's story.

3. To make the first row of stitches in knitting by putting some number of stitches on a knitting needle: Be careful not to cast on too tightly or it will be difficult to knit the first row. Start by casting on 18 stitches. Make 4 loops and cast them on.

See also: cast, on