wail on
C1 slang inseparable transitive
In simple words
To keep hitting someone very hard, over and over.
Literal meaning: 'Wail' here is likely a variant of 'whale' (to beat); the 'on' indicates the target of the action.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
slang
To hit a person or object repeatedly and with great force.
"The bigger kid started wailing on him until the teacher stepped in."
Grammar: inseparable
2 C1
idiomatic
slang
To play a musical instrument, especially drums or guitar, with great energy and force.
"He was wailing on his guitar like he was born to play."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Primarily American informal/slang. May also be spelled 'whale on'. The variant 'wale on' is also attested. Sometimes used figuratively to mean criticizing someone harshly. Mostly used in spoken language and informal writing.
Commonly used with
someone drum punching bag opponent rival
Forms
Base
wail on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wails on
he/she/it
Past simple
wailed on
yesterday
Past participle
wailed on
have + pp
-ing form
wailing on
continuous
Understand "wail on" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "wail on" on Looplines