How Do You Spell THE WORKS?

Pronunciation: [ðə wˈɜːks] (IPA)

The phrase "the works" is spelled with the IPA transcription /ði wɜːks/. The first syllable, "the" is pronounced with the voiced dental fricative /ð/, which is the same sound as the "th" in "this". The second syllable, "works", is pronounced with the open-mid back unrounded vowel /ɜː/. The "ks" ending is a voiceless velar fricative /ks/ sound. "The works" is a commonly used phrase to describe a full range of something, such as a complete meal or a comprehensive list of actions.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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THE WORKS Meaning and Definition

  1. "The works" is a colloquial expression that typically refers to the complete or comprehensive range of something. It can be used to describe a variety of situations or objects, indicating a state of entirety, inclusion, or totality. This phrase is often employed to emphasize that all possible aspects or features of a particular thing are being provided, offered, or utilized.

    In a general context, "the works" can describe a situation in which every possible element or detail is involved or considered. For instance, if someone states they want "the works" on their pizza, it means they desire all available toppings or ingredients. Similarly, when a person says they are going to have "the works" done to their car, it implies that they are planning to have a complete or thorough maintenance or repair service, typically covering various components.

    "The works" can also be used to describe an elaborate or extensive set of activities or procedures within a particular context. For instance, if someone mentions having a spa day with "the works," it suggests they are going to undergo a comprehensive package of treatments and services, such as massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures, leaving no aspect untouched.

    Overall, "the works" conveys a sense of comprehensiveness, entirety, and inclusiveness, often used informally to express a desire or expectation for the fullest or most comprehensive offering, treatment, or experience.

Common Misspellings for THE WORKS

  • rhe works
  • fhe works
  • ghe works
  • yhe works
  • 6he works
  • 5he works
  • tge works
  • tbe works
  • tne works
  • tje works
  • tue works
  • thw works
  • ths works
  • thd works
  • thr works
  • th4 works
  • th3 works
  • the qorks
  • the aorks
  • the sorks

Etymology of THE WORKS

The phrase "the works" originated in the late 19th century in the United States. It is believed to have derived from a culinary term used in diners and food establishments. When someone ordered "the works", it meant that they wanted every available item or option for their meal. Over time, the expression expanded beyond the realm of food and began to be used informally to indicate "everything" or "the whole package" in various contexts, not just related to dining. Today, "the works" is often used colloquially to refer to a comprehensive set of features, actions, or components in different situations, such as referring to a fully loaded car or a complete set of actions taken to accomplish a task.

Idioms with the word THE WORKS

  • shoot the works The definition of the idiom "shoot the works" is to make a full, energetic, and determined effort towards achieving something, often by utilizing all available resources. It implies taking risks and putting forth one's utmost effort in order to achieve the desired outcome.
  • put a spanner in the works The idiom "put a spanner in the works" means to cause disruption or hinder progress in a planned activity, project, or process. It refers to an unexpected obstacle or problem that causes a delay or prevents the smooth execution of something. The term "spanner" refers to a tool used to tighten or loosen bolts, but in this context, it symbolizes an interference that interrupts the normal functioning of a system or plan.
  • in the works The idiom "in the works" means that something is currently being planned, developed, or worked on. It suggests that the project or idea is actively progressing and will eventually be realized or completed.
  • get the works The idiom "get the works" means to receive or experience everything or all the available options, usually in a comprehensive or thorough manner. It often implies being provided with the complete or most extensive treatment, services, or offerings possible.
  • give (one) the works To "give (one) the works" is an idiomatic expression that means to provide or give something to someone in its entirety or with all possible options, features, or extras. It could refer to providing someone with all available information, resources, or treatments, ensuring that they receive the full experience or complete range of a particular service or activity.
  • a spanner in the works The idiom "a spanner in the works" refers to something or someone that disrupts or interferes with a plan, situation, or process, causing problems or delays. It implies an unexpected or unforeseen obstacle that hinders the smooth progression of something. The term "spanner" refers to a wrench used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts, and "in the works" refers to the system or mechanism in place. Overall, the idiom conveys the idea of a disruptive element that throws a wrench into the functioning of a situation or plan.
  • put/throw a spanner in the works The idiom "put/throw a spanner in the works" means to disrupt or sabotage a plan or process, causing it to fail or become more difficult. It implies introducing unexpected complications or obstacles that hinder progress or efficiency.
  • throw a (monkey) wrench in the works, at put/throw a spanner in the works The idiom "throw a (monkey) wrench in the works" (or "put/throw a spanner in the works" in British English) means to create a problem or obstacle that disrupts or hinders a plan, project, or situation. It refers to the act of unexpectedly introducing complications or causing interference, leading to the delay or failure of the intended outcome.
  • throw a monkey wrench in the works The idiom "throw a monkey wrench in the works" means to intentionally disrupt or interfere with a process, plan, or situation, causing it to become chaotic or fail to progress smoothly. It refers to the act of introducing unexpected difficulties or obstacles that hinder progress or cause complications.
  • gum up the works The idiom "gum up the works" means to obstruct or hinder a process, system, or situation by causing complications, delays, or malfunctions. It refers to the idea of inserting gum into a machine's mechanisms, causing it to malfunction or stop working altogether. Consequently, the phrase is used metaphorically to describe any action that disrupts or impedes the smooth functioning of something.
  • give someone the works The idiom "give someone the works" means to provide or present someone with the complete, full, or extensive treatment or experience related to something. It implies going above and beyond in offering all the available options or extras to ensure that person receives a comprehensive or thorough treatment or experience.
  • the works "The works" is an idiomatic expression that typically means everything or all of the available options or features. It often refers to a comprehensive or complete set of items or services.