# the whole nine yards

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/the-whole-nine-yards
Updated: 2026-06-07

## 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. (unknown)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.