try on

verb

tried on; trying on; tries on

transitive verb

1
: to put on (a garment) in order to test the fit
2
: to use or test experimentally

Examples of try on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After trying on about a dozen styles, this was the only one that felt like relief. Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026 The creator of vivid, indelible fantasies for women to try on and to embody was also a fragile and anguished man, troubled throughout his life by alcohol, drug dependency, and bouts of debilitating depression. Naomi Fry, New Yorker, 1 Aug. 2026 When deciding where to shop in person, the survey showed that consumers prioritize the best overall prices and promotions at 54 percent, convenient locations at 34 percent, and the ability to see, try on or choose items in person at 31 percent. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 31 July 2026 At the conclusion of the episode, Catherine tries on a new persona, one that really, really loves salads. Erin Qualey, Vulture, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for try on

Word History

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of try on was in 1664

Cite this Entry

“Try on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/try%20on. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

try on

verb
: to put on (as a garment) in order to test the fit

More from Merriam-Webster on try on

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster