on (one's) feet


on (one's) feet

1. Literally, standing upright. We've been on our feet for over an hour—let's find somewhere to sit for a while.2. In a healthy or stable condition, usually after a period of illness or misfortune. I was out with the flu for a week, but I'm back on my feet now. After bringing in some new management, the business is finally on its feet again.3. Quickly and extemporaneously. This job requires you to think on your feet and make decisions at the drop of a hat.See also: feet, on

on one's feet

 1. Lit. standing up. Get on your feet. They are playing the national anthem. I've been on my feet all day, and they hurt. 2. Fig. well and healthy, especially after an illness. I hope to be back on my feet next week. I can help out as soon as I'm back on my feet.See also: feet, on

on one's feet

In addition to the idiom (see the next entry) on one's feet, also see dead on one's feet; fall (land) on one's feet; get to one's feet; set one back on one's feet; stand on one's feet; think on one's feet.

on one's feet

1. Standing, as in I'm tired-I've been on my feet all day. [Mid-1400s] Also see get to one's feet. 2. Also, back on one's feet. Healthy, returned to good health, as in I hope you get back on your feet very soon. [c. 1800] See also: feet, on

on your ˈfeet


1 standing up: Working in a restaurant means that you’re on your feet all day long.
2 (of a business, etc.) in a strong position again after a period of difficulty, uncertainty, etc: Only our party’s policies will really get the country on its feet again. ♢ The company seems to be back on its feet now.See also: feet, on

on (one's) feet

1. Standing up: The crowd was on its feet for the last ten seconds.2. Fully recovered, as after an illness or convalescence: The patient is on her feet again.3. In a sound or stable operating condition: put the business back on its feet after years of mismanagement.4. In an impromptu situation; extemporaneously: "Politicians provide easy targets for grammatical nitpickers because they have to think on their feet" (Springfield MA Morning Union).See also: feet, on