WHOLLY Synonyms: 83 Similar and Opposite Words

wholly

adverb

ˈhō(l)-lē

Definition of wholly

as in completely

to a full extent or degree not wholly convinced by the evidence that the prosecutor presented

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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 wholly Some experts believe this is a good start, but many see it as wholly inadequate. — Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 This unconventional, generation-spanning bond opens a path through grief, love and self-discovery that gives the film a wholly unexpected arc. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 20 Oct. 2026 The measure would apply only to existing commercial facilities on properties wholly or partially within one mile of the urban limit line. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 19 Oct. 2026 Whether or not Baitz’ writing (or Hickey’s direction) can wholly support the major leap we’re eventually expected to take will be determined by each person in a Hudson Theatre seat. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 18 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wholly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for wholly

Adverb

Metz always saw it as an amazing tool and biological specimen that had just been completely ignored.

— Fiorella Valdesolo, Allure, 30 Oct. 2026
The werewolf’s victims reappear in hallucinations completely drenched in blood, while the hugely likable Griffin Dunne exits in spectacular fashion, totally ripped to shreds.

— Vulture Editors, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of completely

Adverb

More retreat than resort, the 17-room lodge leans into its eco-conscious cred, maximizing the natural beauty of the surroundings and bringing those elements indoors to create a fully restorative experience.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026
Bocken says the long-term ambition is to go fully autonomous.

— Edd Gent, IEEE Spectrum, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of fully

Adverb

But during a 136-129 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday reinforced that even one of the best offensive backcourts in the league can‘t totally compensate for a championship-winning defense.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026
That’s a highly capital-intensive approach that, judging by its tiny capital spending so far, is totally new.

— Shawn Tully, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of totally

Adverb

Comparing the administration's fight to protect women and women's spaces from males to rape, is utterly disgusting and actually devalues those atrocities and crimes against actual women.

— Jon Root OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026
Humanity has become an Earth-System force in the most utterly literal way—by moving a lot of earth.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of utterly

Adverb

Brian Schottenheimer wasn’t quite defeated at his press conference last Monday after the 23-13 loss to Green Bay, but the head coach realized how low the morale was around the building.

— Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026
The savory vol-au-vent with pear and onion jam, tart tamarind and pecorino cheese is ambitious, but the pastry itself was a bit heavy, the layers not quite flaky enough for the abundant stuffing.

— Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of quite

Adverb

The findings bring an entirely new class of personalized cancer medicine a step closer to reality.

— Mike McRae October 25, New Atlas, 26 Oct. 2026
Throughout the property, interiors are dressed with upscale furniture and neutral colors, with shades of brown, gray, and cream, calling back to the surrounding nature and ensuring that your focus remains entirely on the great outdoors.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Oct. 2026

Definition of entirely

Adverb

Why Leaders Never Make The Announcement In most cases, leaders don’t withhold the all-clear on purpose.

— Amanda Connelly, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026
The good times, the less than good times, the confusing times are all here, burnished with a warm glow of friendship.

— Maira Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of all

Browse Nearby Words

whole-souled

wholly

whomp

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“Wholly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wholly. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of wholly

adverb

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