on tiptoe

phrase

Definition of on tiptoenext
as in alert
paying close attention usually for the purpose of anticipating approaching danger or opportunity She always felt pressure to remain on tiptoe when dealing with her grouchy uncle.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for on tiptoe
on guard
Phrase
  • That exemption will be used on guard Eliška Joklová (nee Hamzová), whose third seven-day contract is about to expire.
    — Mike Cook, Twin Cities, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Disinformation and misinformation experts who spent years telling the public to be on guard against deepfakes are now trying to convince the public that the McConnell image is real.
    — David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 15 July 2026
Definition of on guard
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.

Browse Nearby Words

on the whole
on tiptoe
on top of
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On tiptoe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20tiptoe. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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