all-out

1 of 2

adjective

Synonyms of all-outnext
1
: made with maximum effort : thoroughgoing
an all-out effort to win the contest
2

all out

2 of 2

adverb

: with full determination or enthusiasm : with maximum effort
used chiefly in the phrase go all out

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
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.
Adjective
Auburn is not a great match up for Arkansas because of the all-out abandon the Tigers play with. Wally Hall, Arkansas Online, 17 Feb. 2026 After Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago, EU members moved to end their dependence on Russian oil and gas. Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 16 Feb. 2026
Adverb
That’s good news for the Braves long term, but might mean Waldrep could start 2026 in Gwinnett instead of taking a roster spot from, say, Bryce Elder or Joey Wentz, who are all out of options. Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 13 Feb. 2026 Game of the night DENTON — Ethan Sheats let it all out. Myah Taylor, Dallas Morning News, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for all-out

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1893, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of all-out was in 1840

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“All-out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/all-out. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on all-out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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