the works

noun

1
: the moving parts of a machine
the works of a clock
sometimes used figuratively
The office used to be very efficient, but the new regulations have gummed up the works.
2
informal : everything that there is to have or do : everything that is available
They ordered a pizza with the works.
When we went to New York, we visited the museums, did some shopping, saw some shows—the whole works.

Dictionary Entries Near the works

Cite this Entry

“The works.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20works. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!