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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word whole distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of whole are all, entire, and total. While all these words mean "including everything or everyone without exception," whole implies that nothing has been omitted, ignored, abated, or taken away.

read the whole book

How is all related to other words for whole?

All may equal whole, entire, or total.

all proceeds go to charity

When could entire be used to replace whole?

The words entire and whole are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, entire may suggest a state of completeness or perfection to which nothing can be added.

the entire population was wiped out

When would total be a good substitute for whole?

While in some cases nearly identical to whole, total implies that everything has been counted, weighed, measured, or considered.

the total number of people present

Examples 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 whole
Adjective
Suitable for ages 3 and up, this show is a illuminated spectacle befitting the whole family. Mars Salazar, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Dec. 2024 The resort features four pools (three of which are heated and one that is open seasonally), all of which make for an ideal spot to plunk down for a day or even a whole vacation. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 6 Dec. 2024
Noun
The doc’s rosy portrayal of Nick Kyrgios does not age well in light of the assault allegations leveled against him later, but on the whole, its perspective is valuable to anyone looking to understand this sport and its players a little better. Laura Bradley, Vulture, 22 Nov. 2024 It easily gets forgotten but, eight years ago, Liverpool made it out of November at the summit of the table, having occupied the space for the whole of the previous month. Simon Hughes, The Athletic, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for whole 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for whole
Adjective
  • Former President Donald Trump will do a Fox News town hall next week focused on issues impacting women, before an all-female audience, the network said.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 11 Oct. 2024
  • President Joe Biden and Democrats nationally have moved swiftly to highlight the ruling, made by an all-Republican court, as evidence of Republicans overstepping on reproductive health care.
    Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 28 Feb. 2024
Adjective
  • In the United States and around the world, the nonprofit works to ensure children grow up healthy, educated, and safe.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Don’t fret — this is all about finding a healthy balance between your passionate pursuit of creativity and recognition and your need for personal space.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 10 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The entire West coast is at risk for tsunamis California is by no means the only part of the United States at risk for tsunamis.
    Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024
  • The right-handed, two-time American League All Star, has spent his entire career pitching in the Cleveland organization.
    Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Throughout December, the city usually receives a total of 4.3 inches of rain, Hrencecin said.
    Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 14 Dec. 2024
  • Over its seven-season run, the series received a total of seven Emmys, a Peabody Award and a Grammy.
    Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 13 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • This floral scent will command your undivided attention much like a visit to Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris, where Monet’s esteemed series is on display.
    Paige Stables, Allure, 25 Nov. 2024
  • The poll also delved into the business ramifications of how this undivided attention presents a great opportunity for brand engagement.
    Matt Gardner, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The witch’s magic is still MIA, but her attitude is well and truly back.
    Alison Herman, Variety, 19 Sep. 2024
  • In an interview with BBC Radio 4, Wilson’s cousin and bandmate Love, 83, assured fans that all is well, and that the latest legal decisions have not affected their bond.
    Rachel DeSantis, Peoplemag, 22 May 2024
Adjective
  • With restaurants closed, and a complete ban on having people outside of your bubble—let alone chefs—in your home, their entire business model disappeared overnight.
    Lela London, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Trump allies had been concerned that a successful effort to derail Hegseth’s candidacy would empower opposition to other nominees, undermining his projections of complete dominance of the party.
    Jill Colvin, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Once operational next year, the satellites will orbit Earth in an intricate dance, creating artificial eclipses that will last up to six hours—far longer than the mere moments of totality offered by a natural solar eclipse.
    Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024
  • Quantum particles, for example, reveal something of this whole, atoms built from quantum particles reveal more, and molecular structures reveal even more of this quantum-level totality.
    Pravir Malik, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near whole

Cite this Entry

“Whole.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/whole. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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