# warts and all

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/warts-and-all
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Of or pertaining to a description or other depiction which reveals the full range of characteristics of a person or thing, including the shortcomings and imperfections.

## Examples

- She loves her new house, warts and all.
- You must accept your partner warts and all if you want a long relationship.
- The documentary showed the life of the famous singer, warts and all, including his difficult personality.
- The manager asked for a report that described the project's progress warts and all, so we included the budget mistakes and the missed deadlines.
- Instead of using filters to look perfect, she posted a photo that showed her natural skin, warts and all, to encourage her followers.
- The author chose to present a candid portrait of the city, warts and all, refusing to hide the poverty and decay behind the tourist attractions.

## Origin

In 1653, an artist, Samuel Cooper, was asked to paint Oliver Cromwell’s portrait. Cromwell preferred the portrait to be shown with “pimples, warts and everything” (i.e., to include any defects and imperfections). Over time, this phrase has come to be shortened to “warts and all”.

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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.