The phrase "full to gills" is typically spelled with two L's in "gills," despite the fact that it's pronounced with only one. In phonetic transcription, the word "gills" would be represented as /ɡɪlz/, with the /z/ sound at the end indicating that the word ends with a voiced consonant. However, in writing, the second L is included to convey the idea that something is filled up completely, as if the fish's gills were packed to capacity.
The phrase "full to the gills" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or object that is completely filled to capacity or beyond what is considered ordinary or normal. It is primarily used in informal contexts to emphasize a state of overflowing abundance, saturation, or excessive quantity.
Originating from the image of the gills of a fish expanding to their maximum capacity when it is overfilled with water, this colloquial expression indicates that something is completely stuffed, crammed, or packed to the point of being unable to accommodate any additional substance, often suggesting a sense of heaviness or burden due to the excess.
The phrase can be used to describe physical spaces, such as a room or container, which are brimming with objects, leaving no room for any more. It can also refer to individuals who feel overwhelmed or overwhelmed due to being excessively busy or occupied with numerous responsibilities or tasks. Moreover, "full to the gills" can characterize events or activities that are filled with attendees, leaving no room for additional participants.
Overall, "full to the gills" encapsulates a state of being completely filled or overwhelmed, conveying the idea of reaching maximum capacity or saturation.