on the square

idiom informal

The phrase "on the square" is often used to describe honesty and fairness, with origins linked to Freemasonry where it symbolizes uprightness and integrity.

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Definition

B2General

(idiomatic)Acting with honesty and straightforwardness.

Example

You can trust him; he's always on the square with his dealings.

C1Freemasonry

(discreet)A subtle reference to being a member of the Freemasons.

Example

He hinted that he was on the square, but didn't elaborate further.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "on the square":

town square out of square set square square off on the level fair and square square up four square square the circle in the round on the street on the flat square engine in a corner on the line in town on side city block on the beat on the spot back to square one