all-out

1 of 2

adjective

ˈȯl-ˈau̇t 

1

: made with maximum effort : thoroughgoing

an all-out effort to win the contest

2

: full-blown sense 2

all out

2 of 2

adverb

: with full determination or enthusiasm : with maximum effort

—used chiefly in the phrase go all out

Synonyms of all-out

Adjective

• sheer
• utter
• unconditional
• complete
• absolute
• pure
• total
• outright
• simple
• definite
• perfect

Adverb

• full steam ahead
• like crazy
• to the hilt
• in full career
• thoroughly
• completely

Examples of all-out in a Sentence

Adjective

Grandpa got the all-out support of the family when he decided to remarry at age 72

an all-out effort to break open the door

Adverb

went all out for her New Year's Eve party—she even had fireworks!

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Supporters of a federal film incentive are preparing an all-out push to pass the legislation by the end of the year, looking to take advantage of momentum before Congress potentially changes hands next term. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026

The two labs are already deep into an all-out price war—something that could put pressure on their ability to profit from their models down the line. — Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 23 Sep. 2026

Adverb

Supposedly, Tesla expects to ship them all out within 18 months. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 24 Sep. 2026

Perhaps the sting of a 16 will inspire her to leave it all out on the floor next week. — Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1893, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for all-out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

all-out

1 of 2 adjective

ˈȯ-ˈlau̇t

: made with maximum effort : extreme

an all-out attempt to finish on time

all out

2 of 2 adverb

: with maximum effort

went all out to win