wholly

[hoh-lee, hohl-lee]

adverb

1. entirely; totally; altogether; quite.

2. to the whole amount, extent, etc.

3. so as to comprise or involve all.

wholly

/ ˈhəʊllɪ /

adverb

1. completely, totally, or entirely

2. without exception; exclusively

Word History and Origins

Origin of wholly¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, wholly is from the Middle English word holliche. See whole, -ly

Example Sentences

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stressed that what it called the "action against the top terrorist chiefs" of Hamas was a "a wholly independent Israeli operation".

From BBC

The office for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu put out a statement shortly after the strike, claiming the attack was "a wholly independent Israeli operation".

From BBC

Zalaegerszeg in western Hungary does not get to join the hall of infamy, not after Scotland won a fairly joyless, but wholly professional, behind-closed-doors contest against Belarus.

From BBC

Torode said he had "no recollection" of it and that any racist language is "wholly unacceptable".

From BBC

He argued that the cabinet were "wholly unqualified people to run our country."

From BBC

Related Words

• altogether 
• completely 
• entirely 
• fully 
• perfectly 
• quite 
• thoroughly 
• totally 
• utterly