get going

1. To cause someone to begin enthusiastically discussing some topic. Don't get Grandpa going about the weather unless you want to hear about the Farmers' Almanac all night. A: "OK, why exactly are you mad at Dante?" B: "Oh, don't get me going! He's a real creep, I'll tell you that much." All right, who got Uncle Fred going on tax reform?

2. euphemism To cause one to become sexually aroused. Yeah, I've never been attracted to beefcakes—it's skinny nerds that really get me going! Is there anything hotter than a guy in glasses? A: "I'm sorry, poetry is what gets you going?" B: "Yes! Why do you think I've only dated English majors?" When my wife came out in that tiny little dress for date night, it definitely got me going, not gonna lie!

1. To depart. I better get going so I don't miss the train. Come on, kids, let's get going—the party starts in 20 minutes. Get going or you'll be late!

2. To start taking some action. We need to get going if we want to get this house cleaned up before your mother gets here. Would you get going already? The boss expects to have this report in his hands in an hour! You haven't even started your homework? Well, get going then!

1. to start moving. Let's get going! We can't stand here all day.

2. to depart. What time should we get going in the morning?

1. See get a move on.

2. get something going. Start something, get something into full swing. For example, Once we get production going we'll have no more problems. This usage also appears in when the going gets tough, the tough get going, meaning that difficulties spur on capable individuals; the first tough here means "difficult," whereas the second means "strong-minded, resolute." For example, That problem won't stop Tom; when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Also see swing into action.

3. Make someone talkative or active, as in Once he got her going on her grandchildren, there was no stopping her. [Colloquial; late 1800s]