advb. phr. [see A prep.1] On tiptoe, on the tips of one’s toes (either to raise oneself higher, or to move about noiselessly).
1576. R. Scot, Hop Gard., 45. They must stand longwyse, as it were a tiptoe.
1647. R. Stapylton, Juvenal, 98. She sure must stand a-tipto for a kisse.
1751. Smollett, Per. Pic., lxxxi. 133. He stood a tiptoe to view himself in the glass.
1868. Geo. Eliot, Sp. Gipsy, 224. Moving a-tiptoe, silent as the Elves.
