WordGarden.iofull
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈʊl/
US
- /ˈfʊl/
Meanings
Adjective
containing as much or as many as possible
complete, entire, or not shortened
having eaten enough and no longer hungry
More meaningsFewer meanings
rich, strong, or deep in quality
rounded, ample, or relatively large in shape
Adverb
completely, very, or directly
Beyond the definition
Something that is "full" has no empty space left. Think of a glass with water all the way to the top. But "full" is not just about physical space. You can be full of joy, full of ideas, or even full of regret. A full life is one that is rich with experiences.
You might say a restaurant is "full" during busy hours, meaning all the tables are taken. You could also describe a story as full of suspense and twists. And if you have just eaten a big meal, you will likely feel full. Sometimes, "full" can also mean fully developed or complete, as in a full-blown crisis.
The word "full" describes something that contains as much as it can hold, leaving no room for more. This is most easily understood in a physical sense: a full cup, a full backpack, or a full parking lot. It implies completeness and saturation. For example: "The stadium was full of cheering fans."
However, "full" extends far beyond just containers. We use it to describe states of being—feeling full after eating, or being full of energy. It can also represent abundance: a full harvest, a full schedule, or a full understanding of a complex topic.
Figuratively, "full" can mean complete or mature. A full-grown tree has reached its maximum size. A full-blown argument is one that has escalated to its peak intensity. You might even describe someone as being full of themselves if they are arrogant and self-absorbed.
Interestingly, "full" also appears in phrases like "full stop" (British English), meaning a period or the final end of something. It's a surprisingly versatile word, capable of describing physical capacity, emotional states, levels of development, and even finality. So, whether it's a container overflowing with contents, a heart brimming with emotion, or a life lived to its fullest potential—"full" signifies completeness and abundance.
Examples
- 1
Crowded transport
The bus was already full, so we waited for the next one.
- 2
Packed luggage
Her suitcase was full of clothes.
- 3
After eating
No thanks, I'm full.
- 4
Official forms
Please write your full name on the form.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Work schedule
He works full time and studies in the evening.
- Phrasefull time
for the whole working week, not just part of it
- 6
Ticket price
We paid full price for the tickets.
- 7
Payment
The bill must be paid in full by Friday.
- Phrasein full
completely, with nothing left to pay
- 8
Speed
The car was coming toward us at full speed.
- Phraseat full speed
as fast as possible
- 9
Attention
This decision needs your full attention.
- 10
Self-importance
Since the promotion, he's been a bit full of himself.
- Phrasefull of yourself
too proud and too sure you are important
See also
Forms and spellings
6 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- fullnounverbadjectiveadverb
Forms
- fullercomparativeadjectiveadverbverbnoun
- fullestsuperlativeadjectiveadverbverbnoun
- fulling-ing formverbnounadjective
- fullsverbnounadjective
- fulledpast tenseverbnounadjective