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DictionaryhiltMaximum extent
noun

hilt

The fullest possible extent, in the phrase “to the hilt.”

She defends her team's decision to the hilt, despite the criticism.

Etymology
hiltOld Englishweapon handle

A hilt is the handle of a sword or knife. To the hilt pictures a blade driven in all the way up to its handle, hence the fullest possible extent.

More examples

  • Their house is mortgaged to the hilt.
  • He plays the villain to the hilt.
  • We back the new plan to the hilt.

Forms

hilt

Similar words

utmost
Usually describes the greatest possible effort, degree, or capacity.
maximum
Often identifies a measurable upper limit rather than emphatic completeness.