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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Each photograph’s staging is meticulous, and there is an almost exhaustive attempt to interweave the agent’s narratives with the visual language of each image. — Stephanie Wambugu, Vulture, 12 Oct. 2026 Under this new pathway, only the nuclear module follows the exhaustive atomic licensing schedule, while the turbine complex proceeds under standard commercial timelines. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2026 The film is an exhaustive recounting of Musk’s metastasizing role in our society. — Sheelah Kolhatkar, New Yorker, 9 Oct. 2026 Deadline’s list of bidders is by no means exhaustive and other interested parties may yet emerge. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exhaustive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exhaustive
  1. thorough
  2. comprehensive
  3. extensive
  4. full
  5. complete
Adjective
  • As much as the latter two helped to inaugurate the era of online automotive auction houses by setting new standards for thorough listings and seller engagements, the excitement of real-time bidding in person undoubtedly bolsters values even further.
    — Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Perhaps most importantly, start the process of shopping for providers and policies now as thorough research and analysis will boost your chances of finding the most suitable policy for you and your beneficiaries.
    — Matt Richardson, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of thorough
Adjective
  • This happens because cities to a large extent are bound by their comprehensive plans, which govern how land can be used.
    — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Nov. 2026
  • The Venezuelan migrant crisis The assistance and response led by Prevost in the face of the massive arrival of Venezuelan migrants in 2018 was comprehensive and had a different vision from that of the country’s other regions.
    — Claudia Rebaza, CNN Money, 11 Nov. 2026
Definition of comprehensive
Adjective
  • Fraser Shilling, director of the Road Ecology Center, and his team determined that extensive fencing on highways is the solution to reducing roadkill, not just wildlife crossings.
    — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2026
  • The plan does not include crosswalks, which city spokesperson Jack VanderToll said require more extensive work such as accessible sidewalks and curb ramps.
    — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Nov. 2026
Definition of extensive
Adjective
  • The group previously proved a special case of the conjecture in August 2026 and is preparing a shorter exposition of PSI’s full proof for other experts.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026
  • These two tapes, though, are like watching a full playoff game, the early-season jitters and mishaps gone.
    — Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of full
Adjective
  • Lead author Samantha Gilbert-Janizek expanded the model to include those missing systems, creating a more complete picture of how chemicals move throughout a rocky planet.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 3 Nov. 2026
  • As the Moon joins Mars in Leo, creative courage may arrive before complete confidence.
    — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 2 Nov. 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 14 Nov. 2026.

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