TAKE ON

{v.} 1. To receive for carrying; be loaded with. * /A big ship was at the dock taking on automobiles in crates to carry overseas for sale./ * /The bus driver stopped at the curb to take the woman on./ 2. To begin to have (the look of); take (the appearance of). * /Others joined the fistfight until it took on the look of a riot./ * /After the students put up Christmas decorations, the classroom took on a holiday appearance./ 3a. To give a job to; hire; employ. * /The factory has opened and is beginning to take on new workers./ Contrast: LET GO(4), LET OFF, LET OUT(6). 3b. To accept in business or a contest. * /The big man took on two opponents at once./ * /After his father died, Bill took on the management of the factory./ * /We knew their football team was bigger and stronger, but we took them on anyway and beat them./ 4. {informal} To show great excitement, grief, or anger. * /At the news of her husband's death she took on like a madwoman./ Compare: CARRY-ON.