on the nod
Passed without debate
On the nod means approved automatically, without discussion or formal vote: The committee passed it on the nod.
This British expression suggests agreement by a simple nod rather than deliberation.
Separately, on the nod describes someone drowsing from heroin or other opiates—the characteristic head-bobbing of a user slipping in and out of consciousness: He was on the nod in the corner.
Formal expression of approval
- consentVoluntary agreement given
- accordHarmony between parties
- concurrenceState of agreeing
- approvalFavorable opinion given
acceptance · understanding · go-ahead · okay · thumbs-up · green light · blessing · affirmation
Lightly, briefly unconscious
- drowsingLightly, briefly sleeping
- half-asleepPartially conscious, drowsy
- semiconsciousPartially aware, partially not
- stuporSuspended sensibility
drooping · sleepy · drifting · heavy-lidded · heroin · opiates · intoxicated · sedated
assent
Formal expression of approval
- consentVoluntary agreement given
- accordHarmony between parties
- concurrenceState of agreeing
approval · acceptance · understanding · go-ahead · okay · thumbs-up · green light · blessing · affirmation · acknowledgment
dozing
Lightly, briefly unconscious
- drowsingLightly, briefly sleeping
- half-asleepPartially conscious, drowsy
- semiconsciousPartially aware, partially not
stupor · drooping · sleepy · drifting · heavy-lidded · heroin · opiates · intoxicated · sedated · zonked
hammer
Tool for striking nails
paddle · bidder · reserve · auctioneer · knockdown · sold · winning bid · catalogue · estimate · saleroom
on the nodhotly debated
controversial · disputed · challenged · deliberated · scrutinized
on the nodvoted down
Defeated by majority decision
rejected · opposed · disputed · challenged · contentious