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
  • This enables comprehensive pre-arrival planning, reducing friction for guests and maximizing ancillary revenue for hotels.
    — Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026
  • What’s New Think of this as a comprehensive refresh rather than an all-new model.
    — Howard Walker, Robb Report, 29 July 2026
Definition of comprehensive
Adjective
  • Fish and Game planned to confirm the bear’s species through thorough DNA testing.
    — Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 29 July 2026
  • The chances of these complications drop with good prenatal care and thorough screening and monitoring to head off issues early.
    — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 29 July 2026
Definition of thorough
Adjective
  • Provide a comprehensive list of all responsibilities, including tasks from other teams, to give managers a complete picture.
    — Andy Molinsky, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
  • The couple is ready for a complete change in scenery, eying winters in Hawaii.
    — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 27 July 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 2 Aug. 2026.

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