order (one) around

order (one) around

To tell one what to do. This phrase is often used to emphasize that someone's behavior is controlling and unwarranted. You can't order me around just because Mom isn't here! My friend at work got promoted, so now he thinks he can order me around.See also: around, order

order someone about

Give peremptory commands to someone, be domineering, as in That teacher had better learn not to order us about. [Mid-1800s] See also: order, someone

order around

v. To issue commands to someone in a forceful and unpleasant way; boss someone around: The lieutenant ordered the new recruits around. The nanny ordered around the children.See also: around, order