as in entire
not lacking any part or member that properly belongs to it the delegation to the international convention was given plenary authority to negotiate a treaty in the nation's best interest

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the adjective plenary contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of plenary are complete, full, and replete. While all these words mean "containing all that is wanted or needed or possible," plenary adds to complete the implication of fullness without qualification.

given plenary power

When is complete a more appropriate choice than plenary?

The words complete and plenary are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, complete applies when all that is needed is present.

a complete picture of the situation

In what contexts can full take the place of plenary?

The words full and plenary can be used in similar contexts, but full implies the presence or inclusion of everything that is wanted or required by something or that can be held, contained, or attained by it.

a full schedule

When could replete be used to replace plenary?

In some situations, the words replete and plenary are roughly equivalent. However, replete implies being filled to the brim or to satiety.

replete with delightful details

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of plenary The Supreme Court justices had just ended a plenary session and were quickly evacuated safely, the court said in a statement. Fox News, 14 Nov. 2024 At the first plenary session of the forum Thursday morning, Moiseyev participated alongside other top Russian leaders. Mandy Taheri, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 But only three of them showed up for the vote Saturday, with the remaining 105 leaving the plenary hall in protest. Max Kim, Los Angeles Times, 7 Dec. 2024 Parliament votes to reject martial law The 300-member National Assembly convened in a plenary session at about 1 a.m. local time to request that Yoon lift the declaration of martial law. Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 3 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for plenary 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for plenary
Adjective
  • The natural disasters killed at least 29 people and destroyed entire neighborhoods and blocks, leaving an unknown number of people homeless.
    Saba Hamedy, NBC News, 31 Jan. 2025
  • Unlike phishing campaigns targeting the entire workforce, red team exercises often involve precise objectives or trophies, such as gaining access to a critical system or sensitive data.
    Lauren Carpenter, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • But this has been a hallmark of the whole debate between the U.N. and Israel.
    ABC NEWS, ABC News, 30 Jan. 2025
  • Outside of booking flights, hotels, and excursions exists a whole other chore of buying proper travel gear to take on these trips, like comfy walking sneakers, carry-on backpacks, and more.
    Kelsey Fredricks, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The actress wore her brunette tresses in waves with full fringe, while her makeup consisted of rosy blush and a muted red lip.
    Hannah Malach, WWD, 26 Jan. 2025
  • While a full trailer for the new season has not yet been released, the reality TV competition show shared a video showcasing highlights of Carrie’s first season as a judge after previously appearing as a guest mentor.
    Jackie Tempera, People.com, 26 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Once that’s complete, you will get connected with a healthcare provider licensed in your state to start your diagnosis and explore potential treatments.
    Chloe Castleberry, Flow Space, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Jenkins, meanwhile, has helped usher in a complete rethink of Memphis’ offense, one that has made the Grizzlies both unpredictable and effective and led what has historically been a defensive-first squad to a top-five rating on offense.
    John Hollinger, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • These kinds of issues frequently pave the way for more comprehensive health optimization.
    Nick Kasmik, USA TODAY, 29 Jan. 2025
  • The Vatican has released a comprehensive document offering new guidelines for the ethical development and use of artificial intelligence, with a focus on areas such as warfare and healthcare.
    Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 29 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • In 2023, Johnson's offense finished No. 3 in the league in total yards (394.8) and No. 2 in passing yards (258.9), helping Detroit make a deep playoff run to the NFC Championship Game.
    John Yoo and John Shu, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Tapping the card shows more details with your movement score (called Movement Index) graphed over time and total tallies of active minutes and hours.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • And even in a digital world, don’t underestimate the power of real-life, jaw-dropping experiences that are perfect for sharing.
    Monica Gomez, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Still, Edwards doesn’t profess to be a future Caleb Williams or even junior quarterback Mason Atkins, who led the Blackhawks to a perfect 9-0 regular season and the Class 8A playoffs last fall.
    Rick Armstrong, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Plenary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/plenary. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

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