great deal

noun

(ˈ)grā(t)¦dēl,
chiefly before pause or consonant -ēəl
: a large quantity : lot
received a great deal of sympathy at his bereavement
asked for little but received a great deal
Phrases
a great deal
1
: to a considerable degree or extent : by a considerable amount
a great deal better
2
: often, frequently
he runs a great deal
used with intransitive verbs
3
: highly
think a great deal of that book
adverb

Word History

First Known Use

1711, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of great deal was in 1711

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near great deal

Cite this Entry

“Great deal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20deal. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!