The spelling of the phrase "went on wagon" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. "Went" is pronounced as /wɛnt/ with the vowel sound being the short "e" sound as in "pet". "On" is pronounced as /ɒn/ with the vowel sound being the short "o" sound as in "hot". "Wagon" is pronounced as /wæɡən/ with the vowel sound being the short "a" sound as in "cat". Therefore, the correct spelling of the phrase is "went on wagon" with no variations in the spelling.
"Went on the wagon" is a phrase that originated in the early 20th century and is primarily used in American English. This idiomatic expression refers to an individual's decision to abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages. It implies that the person has made a voluntary and conscious choice to quit drinking.
The term "wagon" in this context symbolizes a path of sobriety or abstinence from alcohol. It is believed to have derived from the horse-drawn wagons that were used to transport groups of individuals during the temperance movement in the United States, a social movement that advocated for the reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption.
When someone declares that they have "gone on the wagon," it means that they have taken a hiatus from or have completely stopped drinking alcohol, usually for an extended period. This decision is often made with the intent to improve one's physical and mental well-being, address personal or health issues related to alcohol consumption, or to regain control over one's life.
The phrase is frequently used in casual conversations or discussions relating to alcohol abstinence and is sometimes employed humorously or metaphorically. For instance, it might be used when someone is temporarily avoiding any indulgence or temptation not solely limited to alcohol, such as sweets or junk food. Overall, the phrase "went on the wagon" refers to an individual's deliberate choice to refrain from alcohol consumption for a specific period or indefinitely.