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stand on

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stand on something

 

1. to step or tread on something, perhaps by accident. I didn't mean to stand on the cat's tail. Please don't stand on the nice carpet with muddy shoes.

2. to elevate oneself by standing on something, such as a chair or stool. Tony stood on a stool so he could reach the cookie jar. Don't stand on that box. It won't hold you and it's not tall enough.

See also: on, stand

stand (up)on someone or something

to be on someone or something, standing. (Upon is formal and less commonly used than on.) To help his back pain, he lay down on his tummy and Jill stood upon him, digging her toes into his back. Please don't stand on the bed.

See also: on, stand

stand on

1. Be based on, depend on, as in Our success will stand on their support. [c. 1600]

2. Insist on observance of, as in Let's not stand on ceremony. This usage today is nearly always put in a negative context. [Mid-1500s]

See also: on, stand

stand on

v.

1. To maintain an upright or vertical position on a base or support: The vase of flowers stands on a pedestal.

2. To be based on something; depend on something: The success of the project stands on management's support of it.

3. To insist on the observance of something: They stand on ceremony, so be on your best behavior.

See also: on, stand

stand on (one's)

own/two feet

To be independent and responsible for oneself.

See also: on, stand