1
general::
1. Enlist oneself as an employee, as in Arthur decided to sign on with the new software company. [Late 1800s] 2. Begin radio or television broadcasting, especially at the beginning of the day, as in What time does the station sign on? [c. 1920]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): sign someone on
to employ someone; to recruit someone as an employee. • How many workers did the manager sign on? • The construction company signed on ten new workers., Phrase(s): sign on
to announce the beginning of a broadcast transmission. • The announcer signed on and then played "The Star-Spangled Banner." • We usually sign on at six in the morning., Phrase(s): sign on (with someone or something) (as something)
to join up with someone or something in a particular capacity by signing a contract or agreement. • I signed on with the captain of the Felicity Anne as first mate. • Roger signed on as manager for the new store.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs