What does ‘on’ mean in the example?

Question

“On, hullo, Meg,” I said, as calmly as I could, trying to tame my pounding heart. “I’m glad I found you. You gave me quite a fright.”
My voice was shakier than had hoped.
“Frights as lives in Gibbet Wood,” Meg said darkly. “Frights as lives here an’ not elsewhere.”
“Exactly,” I agreed, not having the faintest idea what she was on about. “I’m glad you’re here with me. Now I shan’t be afraid.”

Avangi · Accepted Answer

eipjoowhat she was on about.

I'm quite sure this is a British expression, and perhaps an old one at that.
In the US, we'd say, "I didn't have the faintest idea what she was going on about."

To go on about something is to talk excitedly and continually about something, usually not making much sense.

I don't know about the origin of the British version. I guess we could look it up.
I've always thought of it as being on a soap box, which used to be a popular wooden crate with a multitude of secondary uses (eg, "soap box derbys"). It got to be an idiom for someone who was making a ranting sort of improptu speech to a crowd or a mob. He would stand on the soap box so everyone could see him. We'd say, "He's on his soap box again!", even if he was standing on the ground.

You can also think of "being on" as being on stage in a talent show. (Okay, You're on!) You think you have everyone's attention, and it's your moment to express yourself as you see fit. Perhaps "turned on," but not in the modern sense.

Sorry to drag on. I may be way off base.

What does ‘on’ mean in the example?

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