exhaustive

adjective

ig-ˈzȯ-stiv How to pronounce exhaustive (audio)
Definition of exhaustivenext
1
as in thorough
trying all possibilities after an exhaustive search of our house, we still hadn't found the cat

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in comprehensive
covering everything or all important points an exhaustive survey of the nation's sexual habits

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of exhaustive The range of activities at both properties is exhaustive, but the main attractions are the half-mile sandy beach and 18-hole golf course. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 Because space and defense qualification cycles require multiple years of exhaustive safety and performance certifications, switching to a cheaper competitor is highly frictional for a prime contractor. — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026 The New York Times‘ exhaustive list of the best TV shows of the 21st century traces its origin to a similar list of the best books a couple years ago. — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 25 Sep. 2026 Boutros has since announced an exhaustive review of previous grand jury matters and reforms in how the usually secret grand jury transcripts are shared with the court. — Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exhaustive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exhaustive
  1. thorough
  2. comprehensive
  3. extensive
  4. full
  5. complete
Adjective
  • Excellent, from the thorough and intuitive spa therapists, to the engaging and sweet girls who run the kids’ club, the generous ice-cream scoopers at the Haagen-Dazs counter, and the nothing-is-too-much-trouble front desk.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The next step was finding a director; according to sources, the search was thorough with not only Black Label and Thunder Road producers meeting potential candidates but the lead cast having their own meetings as well.
    — Justin Kroll, Deadline, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of thorough
Adjective
  • By comparison, human advisors can build a comprehensive financial plan — including investing, taxes, insurance, retirement planning, estate planning and more — based on your specific goals.
    — Kate Dore, CFP®, EA,Kelli Grant, CFP®, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Months later, Straker delivered a comprehensive menu—and when the doors opened, Casa Cruz became London’s hottest restaurant.
    — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of comprehensive
Adjective
  • While the property’s extensive and expensive renovation has elevated nearly every corner of the resort, the room doors appear to have been overlooked.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Contact the treating clinician promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness or warmth, pus-like drainage, fever, extensive blistering, eye symptoms, or a reaction substantially more severe than described.
    — Malana VanTyler, Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of extensive
Adjective
  • This is a play full of people trying very hard to be there for each other and discovering what makes that difficult.
    — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Will movie nights and electric go-kart tracks suffice to keep CWG’s buildings full if, as some predict, AI renders large numbers of office jobs redundant?
    — Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of full
Adjective
  • Cupping treatments come in detoxifying and cellulite targeting versions, and there's a complete slate of massage, sugaring, waxing, aromatherapy, and hair and makeup options.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Although Koerte believes Europe needs to develop greater AI capabilities, complete sovereignty remains a pipe dream.
    — Sam Forsdick, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of complete

Browse Nearby Words

exhaustion
exhaustive
exhaustively
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Cite this Entry

“Exhaustive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/exhaustive. Accessed 12 Oct. 2026.

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