1
: identical to an original in proportion and size
full-scale drawing
2
a
: involving full use of available resources
a full-scale biography
full-scale war
b
: total, complete
a full-scale musical renaissanceCurrent Biography

Examples of full-scale in a Sentence

a full-scale search and rescue for the victims of the rock slide
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fan experiences based on Mattel brands include the Thomas & Friends: World of Sodor attractions and rides, full-scale Barbie Beach House and a Masters of the Universe laser tag arena built to mirror the iconic Castle Grayskull fortress. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2025 This capability to disrupt shipping lanes could sharply raise oil prices and apply global economic pressure without triggering full-scale war, highlighting Tehran's ability to control this vital energy route. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 That proximity has seen the city bombarded throughout Russia's full-scale invasion. David Brennan, ABC News, 11 June 2025 The last teams to move two All-Star-caliber players in the same summer — the Thunder (Paul George, Russell Westbrook) and the Nets (Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving) — immediately launched into full-scale rebuilds. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for full-scale

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of full-scale was in 1887

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Cite this Entry

“Full-scale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/full-scale. Accessed 16 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

full-scale

adjective
ˈfu̇l-ˈskā(ə)l
1
: identical to an original in size
2
: not limited in any way : using everything that can be used
a full-scale war
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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