ENGLISH
REFERENCE

take the stand

idiom
Meaning

To testify as a witness in a trial.


Examples
SIMPLE

The witness must take the stand today.

CONTEXTUAL

After the lawyer called his name, he walked to the front to take the stand and answer questions.

COMPLEX

The defendant chose to take the stand in his own defense, hoping his testimony would convince the jury of his innocence.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    be taken ill

    To become ill.

  2. 02

    blow this pop stand

    To exit or remove oneself from a less than exciting location or environment.

  3. 03

    blow this Popsicle stand

    To leave a place, often with anger or anticipation of going somewhere more exciting.

  4. 04

    can't stand

    cannot put up with

  5. 05

    can't stand the sight of

    To hate vehemently; to really despise.

  6. 06

    cross to take up

    Alternative form of cross to bear.

  7. 07

    forget to take one's medication this morning

    To be annoyed or irritable, or to behave in an ill-mannered way, particularly in the morning.

  8. 08

    get taken in

    To be fooled; to fall for.

Last updated April 17, 2026