honest-to-goodness

Also hon·est-to-God

[on-ist-tuh-good-nis]

adjective

1. real or genuine.

adverb

1. really, truly, or genuinely.

Word History and Origins

Origin of honest-to-goodness¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

By the early 1970s, the couple dropped out of San Jose State University to make a run at an honest-to-goodness musical career.

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Actual honest-to-goodness electrical power, the stuff of Edison and Tesla that drives microphones, lighting and the internet.

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Yet “Problemista,” which Torres wrote, directed and stars in, reveals a new willingness to tell a relatable story with a riveting sketch of an honest-to-goodness person.

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I was curious to hear from gay Catholics who are siding with Gomez and honest-to-goodness homophobes on an issue — drag — that’s such a big part of queer culture.

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It is time to begin regarding the Miami Dolphins as honest-to-goodness Super Bowl contenders and their quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, as a top league MVP candidate.

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