English Explanatory Dictionary

hook, line and sinker

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adv
  1. Completely; (of a belief or acceptance) naively or unquestioningly.

Pronunciation

/ˌhʊk ˌlaɪn ən(d)ˈsɪŋkə(ɹ)/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-hook, line and sinker.wav LL-Q1860 (eng)-Naomi Persephone Amethyst (NaomiAmethyst)-hook, line and sinker.wav

Word forms

hook, line and sinker rod, line and sinker

Etymology

From all the parts of a fishing tackle that may be lost to a fish. Appeared in 1838 as a metaphor from angling.

Synonyms

completely

Related words

lock, stock and barrel eat something up with a spoon
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