On the rack
phrase
Experiencing intense stress or suffering.
He's been on the rack since losing his job and not finding a new one.
Often appears as...
- put someone on the rack
- be on the rack
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Being subjected to intense questioning or examination.
The suspect was on the rack for hours during the interrogation.
Often appears as...
- put on the rack
- be on the rack
phrase
Available for consumers to buy in a store.
The latest fashion trends are now on the rack in stores.
Often appears as...
- fashion on the rack
- goods on the rack
phrase
Experiencing intense stress or suffering.
He's been on the rack since losing his job and not finding a new one.
Often appears as...
- put someone on the rack
- be on the rack
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Being subjected to intense questioning or examination.
The suspect was on the rack for hours during the interrogation.
Often appears as...
- put on the rack
- be on the rack
phrase
Available for consumers to buy in a store.
The latest fashion trends are now on the rack in stores.
Often appears as...
- fashion on the rack
- goods on the rack
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Stress
Used to show that someone is experiencing a lot of emotional stress, like worry or fear.
After the scandal, he's been on the rack, scared to face his colleagues.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical metaphor
The phrase stems from the idea of being stretched painfully on a medieval torture device, the rack.
Waiting for the test results felt like being on the rack.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Use
It's an informal phrase, more appropriate in casual conversations, not formal situations.
She's been on the rack ever since the breakup, dude.
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