on the square 

Honestly; seriously; not joking.

On the square, I think you ought to get yourself a pet if you're so lonely.

on the square by Stop the Pendulum September 5, 2005

on the square 

A member of the free mason's. The free masons have a number of rituals one of which involves a novice showing there development by moving around a square that it on the floor of a Masonic Hall

I didn't know "He " was on the square .

on the square by Barry Otter August 22, 2023

On the Square 

A Freemasonic term based on the square level used by ancient & modern stone masons. According to "Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, Vol II, Albert Mackey" the meaning of the square is:

"... In Freemasonry, it is a symbol of morality. This is its general signification, and is applied in various ways: 1. It presents itself to the neophyte as one of the three great lights; 2. To the Fellow-Craft as one of his working tools; 3. To the Master Mason as the official emblem of the Master of the Lodge" (Enc. of Freemasonry Vol II, Albert Mackey pp. 708)

Thus, the term "on the square" is much the same as "squared away," or "fair and square." To talk to a person "on the square" means to talk in a blunt and straightforward manner, as not to beat around the bush.

Let's talk 'on the square' (to speak candidly, bluntly, and in a straightforward manner)

On the Square by SerenityJosh February 27, 2025

kidding on the square 

joking, but also meaning it

kidding on the square by Anonymous November 9, 2003

lying on the square

A term created by Al Franken, used to reference when someone is saying something as a joke, but they know that its the truth.

"Sure, I'm the bad guy" joked Tom, but Jack knew he was Lying on the square.

lying on the square by Mike Zimmermann February 2, 2006

winning on the square 

To win, or achieve success without any foul play, cheating, or manipulation.. By completely fair & ethical & honorable means.

Congrats on coming in 1st place John. You were awesome! I know you worked hard, & all that practice paid off. Thats straight winning on the square!

winning on the square by littledesertflower September 24, 2011

Joking on the Square 

A diplomatic way of telling a friend their outfit sucks, their boyfriend is ugly, they need to use more conditioner, etc. by making a joke about it like you’re kidding.
Usually they will get the hint without getting mad.

Hey Megan, (laughing) man I love those jeans, I haven’t been able to find those lately, did you get them at a garage sale?
Megan: Are you joking on the square dude??

Joking on the Square by Richfolk September 23, 2021