1
as in thorough
trying all possibilities
after an exhaustive search of our house, we still hadn't found the cat
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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 preparation demanded a significant investment of time, involving extensive reading and exhaustive research.
—
Jenny S. Li, Variety, 11 June 2026
Weber conducted an exhaustive search for the existence of Sister Elsie and found no proof of any existence of Sister Elsie or a Catholic orphanage in the Tujunga area at the time.
—Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026
In the film’s exhaustive cast list, a few of the non-drag performers manage to stick out.
—Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 9 June 2026
The Clearwater Police Department released a 72-page report on Friday summarizing an exhaustive review of statements, medical records, surveillance footage and a visual inspection of the body.
—David Fischer, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for exhaustive
Jenny S. Li, Variety, 11 June 2026
Weber conducted an exhaustive search for the existence of Sister Elsie and found no proof of any existence of Sister Elsie or a Catholic orphanage in the Tujunga area at the time.
—Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026
In the film’s exhaustive cast list, a few of the non-drag performers manage to stick out.
—Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 9 June 2026
The Clearwater Police Department released a 72-page report on Friday summarizing an exhaustive review of statements, medical records, surveillance footage and a visual inspection of the body.
—David Fischer, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for exhaustive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exhaustive
Adjective
-
Detectives with the Arlington Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit conducted a thorough investigation, according to police, and obtained a warrant for Reyna’s arrest.—
Harriet Ramos,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
13 June 2026
-
Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.—
Stacia Datskovska,
Footwear News,
12 June 2026
Adjective
-
Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app.—
Joshua Kloke,
New York Times,
17 June 2026
-
But for users who want a more comprehensive view of their finances — including investments and long-term goals — Monarch Money offers a compelling feature set that helps justify its cost.—
Nick Perry,
USA Today,
16 June 2026
Adjective
-
Months later, after an extensive investigation involving local, state and federal agencies, authorities concluded that Harmony had been killed in Manchester in early December 2019.—
Thao Nguyen,
USA Today,
12 June 2026
-
Richards-Slavik said the detail work is so extensive it can be measured in miles.—
David Caraccio,
Sacbee.com,
12 June 2026
Adjective
-
The low-wing, single-engine turboprop plane was not able to make it to full power, according to officials with the Bates County Emergency Management Agency.—
Ben Wheeler,
Kansas City Star,
15 June 2026
-
Dutch find separating goal to regain control With Japan in full control of momentum after the quick answer, the Netherlands parlayed a swing of possession into a winner in the 64th minute.—
Nick Harris,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
15 June 2026
Adjective
-
Janet agreed to pay over $8,600 in restitution and complete 150 hours of community service.—
Emily Blackwood,
PEOPLE,
14 June 2026
-
But the call of the stage was so strong that Abdul-Mateen II made a complete career change in his late 20s.—
Carita Rizzo,
Deadline,
14 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Exhaustive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/exhaustive. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
