take on

verb10

1. •
   To acquire, bring in, or introduce.

   • The ship took on cargo in Norfolk yesterday.
2. •
   To assume or take responsibility for.

   • I'll take on the project if no one else will.
   • He took on the children's welfare as an extra charge.
3. •
   To attempt to fight, compete with, or engage with.

   • I don't recommend taking on that bully, since he's bigger than you are.
4. •
   To (attempt to) dribble round (an opposition player).

   • He drifted past four Palace players and took on two more before crossing to the far post, where Fellaini touched on for Mata to score. It was a momentum-shifting moment. — 2016
5. •
   To obtain the services of (a person) in exchange for remuneration; to give someone a job.

   • Taking on a first employee should be done with care and consideration.
6. •
   To begin to have or exhibit.

   • In the dark, the teddy bear took on the appearance of a fearsome monster.
7. •
   (UK) To accept (feedback).

   • Thanks for your comments, I'll take them on.
8. •
   (informal) To catch on, do well; to become popular.

   • He had enough money to stock it well, and it took on; but the side of the business he did best on was his travelling shop. — 1974
9. •
   To grieve or be concerned (about something or someone).

   • But I am one of those that never take on about princely fortunes, and am quite content if the world is ready to board and lodge me, while I am putting up at this grim sign of the Thunder Cloud. — 1851
10. •
    (UK) To enlist into military service.