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

The White Worm, who styled herself as a peacetime consigliere, is reduced to obsolescence by the promise of all-out war. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026

The final episode's preview teases an all-out war between the Targaryens and Hightowers, as well as shocking betrayals that are sure to shake up the series. — Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 8 Aug. 2026

Adverb

Keep reading to see these and more of our favorite picks from this year's collection, or click through here to check it all out for yourself. — Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026

Thousands of New York City families who rely on vouchers to help cover the soaring cost of childcare will soon get a reprieve on all out-of-pocket costs, Mayor Mamdani announced Thursday. — Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 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