everything but the kitchen sink - Virtually everything, implying that both the appropriate and inappropriate are included. Originating in the early twentieth century and widely popular after World War II, this colorful phrase paints a picture of absolute excess, encompassing an overflow of items or ideas.
Here’s a funny use of the term attributed in 1958 to the Wall Street Journal about military perfectionists: “[We] military services . . . are such perfectionists that we want everything but the kitchen sink in a weapon.”
Related Terms and Expressions
- Bring the house down: To excite or entertain people a lot; to achieve a dramatic success.
- Lock, stock, and barrel: Referring to everything; the entirety of the matter.
- The whole enchilada: Meaning everything that is available or possible.
- Go overboard: To do something too much or to an extreme degree.
Synonyms
- All-inclusive
- Complete package
- Full house
Antonyms
- Minimalist
- Bare necessities
- Simplicity
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “She packed everything but the kitchen sink… and maybe even a faucet just in case!”
- “Why pack light when you can bring everything but the kitchen sink?”
- “I’m all for carrying light—bring everything but the kitchen sink just in case!”
Proverbs and References
- Proverb: “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.” A good reminder to avoid taking on more than you can manage, akin to not packing everything but the kitchen sink.
- Book Suggestion: “Pack Light: Solid Advice for Travelers” by Jamie Nomadsworth - Combines humor and practical tips for avoiding the kitchen sink overload syndrome.
- Song: “Pack Up” by Eliza Doolittle: A catchy tune reminding you to pack only what’s essential.
- Movie: “Up in the Air”—Reflects on the benefits and follies of living with minimal possessions.
Intriguing Title for Your Delight
🌀 “Everything but the Kitchen Sink: Adventures in Overstuffing Your Life 💼”
Farewell Thought
As you adventure through life, pack wisely. Knowing when to stop adding might just be more valuable than having everything but the kitchen sink at your disposal. Happy journeying!
Published by Lexi Languid in 2023.
