Bring on Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Trigger Warning Use when explaining what causes a negative state or condition. Drinking caffeine can bring on insomnia. Pro Tip 2/3Unexpected Effect Suggests an unplanned or surprising consequence of an action. Being in the cold rain might bring on a fever. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Result Shows that emotions can also be a response to an event. The movie's sad ending could bring on tears.