full-bore

1 of 2

adjective

ˈfu̇l-ˈbȯr How to pronounce full-bore (audio)
Synonyms of full-borenext
1
: full-blown sense 2
a full-bore crisis
2
: made with maximum effort
a full-bore attempt to succeed

full bore

2 of 2

adverb

: with maximum effort or speed
runners sprinting full bore

Examples of full-bore in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The glamorous Emmy winner known for Loewe red-carpet looks and starring on prestige dramedy The Bear is returning to full-bore silly in order to play America’s favorite beagle. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 6 Aug. 2026 These eight destinations run the spectrum from full-bore bars to semi-restaurants that also do drinking very well. — Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 30 June 2026
Adverb
Hundreds of workers continue daily forays into Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station as the company has gone full bore to rebuild the pad to support New Glenn launches before the end of the year. — Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026 And the powertrain hasn’t even reached full bore yet, apparently—a future variant will likely eclipse 1,300 hp (956 kW) and even more range. — ArsTechnica, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for full-bore

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1967, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of full-bore was in 1927

Rhymes for full-bore

See All Rhymes for full-bore

Browse Nearby Words

full bond
full-bore
full bore
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Full-bore.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/full-bore. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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