be-all and end-all

noun

ˈbē-ˌȯl-ən(d)-ˈend-ˌȯl How to pronounce be-all and end-all (audio)
Synonyms of be-all and end-allnext
1
: prime cause : essential element
2
: totality sense 1

Examples of be-all and end-all in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Don’t let one path be your be-all and end-all. — Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026 For those whose work is their be-all and end-all, being let go can be earth-shattering. — Byorianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 27 Jan. 2023 Deficit reduction was the be-all and end-all of fiscal policy. — Martin Sullivan, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2022 Growth is the be-all and end-all of mainstream economic and political thinking. — David Marchesephoto Illustration By Bráulio Amado, New York Times, 17 July 2022 See All Example Sentences for be-all and end-all

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of be-all and end-all was circa 1616

Rhymes for be-all and end-all

See All Rhymes for be-all and end-all

Browse Nearby Words

beallach
be-all and end-all
Bealtine
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Be-all and end-all.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/be-all%20and%20end-all. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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