# onside

/ˈɒnsaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/onside
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

in a position where you are ready to play or support someone. In sports like rugby, it also means being in a legal position to receive a pass.

For teachers: positioned in a way that allows for legal participation or support. In rugby, specifically refers to a player being in a position to receive a pass without being offside.

## Examples

- The team is finally onside and ready to win.
- After the coach explained the new strategy, the players felt onside with the plan and started practicing immediately.
- The quarterback waited for the wide receiver to be onside before releasing the ball, ensuring the play would not be called for a penalty by the referees.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.