no-holds-barred

adjective

Definition of no-holds-barrednext
as in comprehensive
free from the usual limits or rules a no-holds-barred interview with the senator a no-holds-barred contest

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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 no-holds-barred But the seething energy shared between the various women in the film reaches operatic fever pitch, Close going no-holds-barred with Day and a combative Mo’Nique as a semi-sympathetic social worker. — Nicholas Bell, SPIN, 4 Sep. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for no-holds-barred
  1. comprehensive
  2. thorough
  3. complete
Adjective
  • Beyond its adoption areas and dedicated kitten facility, the state-of-the-art building is fully equipped to handle comprehensive feline care, featuring a feline behavior department, examination rooms, and grooming facilities.
    — Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Florida’s Digital Bill of Rights recognizes sensitive biometric information, but its comprehensive access, deletion and opt-out rights target a narrow class of very large advertising and technology businesses.
    — Burak Oktenli, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026
Definition of comprehensive
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
  • 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

no-goods
no-holds-barred
noise
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Cite this Entry

“No-holds-barred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/no-holds-barred. Accessed 9 Nov. 2026.

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