1
general::
Phrase(s): (strictly) on the level
honest; dependably open and fair. • How can I be sure you’re on the level? • You can trust Sally. She’s strictly on the level., Phrase(s): on the level
honest; straightforward. • Come on now, on the level, tell me the truth. • Is the ad on the level?
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Honest, straightforward, sincere, as in You can believe her? she's on the level. This expression may have come from Freemasonry, where the carpenter's level symbolizes integrity. [Late 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms