The Whole Nine Yards: Locks, Stocks, and Barrels
Definition
The whole thing; all of something. Originally, this term referred to all three elements of a firearm—the lock (firing mechanism), the stock (handle), and the barrel (tube). By the early nineteenth century, it evolved to signify the entirety of anything, often found as “lock, stock, and barrel.”
Similar Terms and Expressions
- Lock, stock, and barrel: The entirety of something.
- Hook, line, and sinker: Completely, often referring to being deceived.
- The whole kit and kaboodle: Everything and more.
- The whole enchilada: The entire situation.
- The whole shebang: The whole thing.
- The whole ball of wax: Everything involved in a situation.
- The full monty: The complete amount or thing.
Synonyms
- Entirety
- Totality
- Completeness
- The whole enchilada
- The whole shebang
Antonyms
- Fragment
- Partial
- Incomplete
- Piece
- Portion
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “I gave him the whole nine yards, and he still had no idea what I was talking about.” – Shady Shots
- “If you’re going all in, you might as well take the whole enchilada. Walking half a mile for tacos is just sad.” – Bean Burrito Bonkers
Proverbs and References
- “He swallowed it hook, line, and sinker.” (Taken in completely)
- “We’re dealing with the whole kit and kaboodle here.” (Everything is involved)
- “This meal was the whole enchilada.” (A complete or perfect example)
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Book: “The Whole Shebang: A State-of-the-Universe(s) Report” by Timothy Ferris
- Song: “The Whole Enchilada” by Pampas Wonderland
- Movie: “The Whole Nine Yards” starring Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry
- Poetry: “Locks, Stocks, and Barrels” by Gunther Gabriel
### Which term means everything and more?
- [x] The whole kit and kaboodle
- [ ] A pinch and a dash
- [ ] Halfway there
- [ ] Just the basics
> **Explanation:** "The whole kit and kaboodle" means everything included, often more than expected.
### What does "hook, line, and sinker" imply?
- [ ] Just the essential parts
- [ ] Skepticism
- [x] Completely involved, often deceived
- [ ] Partly interested
> **Explanation:** Falling for something "hook, line, and sinker" means being entirely deceived or involved.
### True or False: "The whole enchilada" means a minor part.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "The whole enchilada" means the entire thing, usually with both important and minor parts included.
### What kind of firearm elements does "lock, stock, and barrel" refer to?
- [x] Firing mechanism, handle, and tube
- [ ] Trigger, bullet, and sight
- [ ] Grip, hammer, and safety
- [ ] Bolt, frame, and powder
> **Explanation:** Historically, the phrase "lock, stock, and barrel" originally described the three primary components of a firearm.
### Who starred in "The Whole Nine Yards" movie?
- [ ] Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones
- [ ] Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson
- [ ] John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson
- [x] Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry
> **Explanation:** "The Whole Nine Yards" stars Bruce Willis and Matthew Perry in a humorous tale about hitmen and dentists.
Farewell Thought
Remember, life is too short to settle for just parts and pieces—aim for the whole kit and kaboodle. Because at the end of the day, going for the whole shebang will lead to the most fulfilling adventures. Keep exploring and asking questions, dear reader.
Jane A. Jargon
2023-10-02
