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rock on

B2 informal intransitive
In simple words

Keep going! / That's awesome! — used to cheer someone on.

Literal meaning: To continue the action of rocking (moving back and forth or playing rock music).

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

Used as an exclamation to express enthusiastic approval, encouragement, or excitement.

"'Rock on!' the crowd shouted as the band took to the stage."

"Rock on, Tommy!"

— Slade, 'Cum On Feel the Noize' era / widely attributed catchphrase; also title of the 1973 David Essex song 'Rock On'
2 B2 informal

To continue playing, performing, or doing something with energy and enthusiasm.

"The band rocked on for another hour despite the late hour."

3 C1 idiomatic informal

(British informal) Used to express that something will be great or that one looks forward to a future time — often ironic.

"Only three more weeks until the holiday — rock on!"

Usage notes

Primarily British English as an exclamation of approval or encouragement (similar to 'nice one'). Also used in American English as a classic rock-culture rallying cry. Can also mean literally to continue rocking (in a chair or musically). The exclamatory use is very strongly associated with youth culture and music fans.

Commonly used with

dude man yeah music crowd

Forms

Base
rock on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rocks on
he/she/it
Past simple
rocked on
yesterday
Past participle
rocked on
have + pp
-ing form
rocking on
continuous

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