Word of the Day : March 16, 2021

replete \rih-PLEET\ adjective

Definition

1 : fully or abundantly provided or filled

2 a : abundantly fed

b : fat, stout

3 : complete

Did You Know?

Given that one of the roots of replete is the Latin verb plēre, meaning "to fill," it isn't surprising that the word has synonyms such as full and complete. Replete, full, and complete all indicate that something contains all that is wanted or needed or possible, but there are also subtle differences between the words. Full implies the presence or inclusion of everything that can be held, contained, or attained ("a full schedule"), while complete applies when all that is needed is present ("a complete picture of the situation"). Replete is the synonym of choice when fullness is accompanied by a sense of satiety.

Aired March 16, 2021

All Merriam-Webster content is available at www.merriam-webster.com