The phrase "whole slews" is spelled with the initial consonant sound "w" followed by the vowel sound "o" pronounced as in "goat," the consonant sound "l" pronounced as in "lake," and the same vowel sound "o" again. The "e" at the end of "slews" is silent. The word "slews" itself refers to a large quantity or number of something. Therefore, when used together, "whole slews" means a whole lot or abundance of something.
Whole slews is an idiomatic phrase that typically refers to a large quantity or a vast number of something. It is commonly used to denote a significant amount, typically in a non-literal sense. In this context, "slews" can be understood as meaning "a great number" or "a multitude."
The word "whole" in this phrase emphasizes the enormity of the quantity being described. It suggests that the number or amount in question is complete or abundant, leaving no portion or element being missing or lacking.
This phrase is often used to describe situations where there is an excessive or overwhelming amount of something. It can be used to convey the idea of an overwhelming abundance, whether in terms of physical objects, tasks, information, or even emotions. For instance, one might say, "She received whole slews of gifts on her birthday," or "I have seen whole slews of movies this week."
Furthermore, the usage of "whole slews" often indicates that the quantity being described is more than what is generally expected or deemed necessary. It implies a surplus or surplus value. It also suggests that the quantity may be difficult to manage or handle due to its sheer size or volume.
Overall, "whole slews" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the notion of an extensive quantity or a great number, presenting a sense of abundance, excess, and potentially overwhelming magnitude.
The term "whole slews" is actually a colloquial phrase, not a single word. It combines the adjective "whole" with the noun "slews" to convey the meaning of a large quantity or a multitude of something. The etymology of both words is as follows:
1. "Whole": The word "whole" originated from the Old English word "hal", meaning healthy or unhurt. It eventually came to represent something complete, entire, or not divided. Its modern spelling and pronunciation, "whole", can be traced back to Middle English (around the 13th century), where it gained its current sense.
2. "Slews": The noun "slews" has its origins in Irish and Scots Gaelic. It derives from the Irish word "sluagh" or the Scottish Gaelic word "sluagh", both of which meant a large group or multitude of people.