under way

adjective, adverb

1. Also underway. (of a ship) no longer in port, at anchor, etc.; moving.
2. no longer at rest, stationary, etc.; in motion; traveling: We’ll put our bags in the car and be under way.
3. proceeding; in progress: Plans are under way to sell the company.

adjective (postpositive)

1. in progress; in operationthe show was under way
2. nautical in motion

1In motion, as in The ship got under way at noon. [c. 1930] 2Already started, in progress, as in Plans are under way to expand. [c. 1930]