tout ensemble

American  

[too tahn-sahn-bl^uh] / tu tɑ̃ˈsɑ̃ blə /

adverb

French.

1. all together.

---

noun

1. the assemblage of parts or details, as in a work of art, considered as forming a whole; the ensemble.

tout ensemble British  

/ tut ɑ̃sɑ̃blə /

adverb

1. everything considered; all in all

---

noun

1. the total impression or effect

Etymology

Origin of tout ensemble

First recorded in 1690–1700; from French tout “all” (from Latin tōtus “entire”) + ensemble “together”; see total ( def. ), ensemble ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

tout ensemble

Though each style is distinct, the tout ensemble is in such perfect harmony that it calls for the greatest admiration for the wonderful skill of the several architects.

From Cathedral Cities of England by Gilbert, George

The tout ensemble of this is an extraordinarily harmonious mixture of styles which compels unceasing admiration.

From Cathedral Cities of Italy by Collins, William Wiehe

While the tout ensemble, his garments clinging to his shivering carcase, is in no wise calculated to invest his just exasperation with the majesty of outraged dignity.

From The Fire Trumpet A Romance of the Cape Frontier by Mitford, Bertram

A gallery ran round the walls to enable the visitors to view the upper pictures, and obtain a general view of the “saloon,” the tout ensemble of which was magnificent.

From The Evolution of Photography With a Chronological Record of Discoveries, Inventions, etc., Contributions to Photographic Literature, and Personal Reminescences Extending over Forty Years by Werge, John

His keen and often expressive glance, his firm voice made mild by emotion, the tout ensemble of his character, seems to call him to great crimes or sublime actions.

From The International Monthly, Volume 3, No. 3, June, 1851 by Various