Idiom idiom
the whole nine yards
Meaning
Everything; all the way.
Examples
“He buys the car, the insurance, and the whole nine yards.”
“When they planned the wedding, they went for the whole nine yards with a band, flowers, and a five-course meal.”
“The company provided the new recruits with laptops, specialized training, and a generous relocation package, giving them the whole nine yards to ensure their success.”
Origin
Origin unknown — famously called 'the Bigfoot of word origins'; attested in US sources from the early 20th century, with none of the popular explanations (machine-gun belts, fabric, concrete) verified.
Last updated June 7, 2026