Definition of plenarynext
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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Synonym Chooser

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 Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an annual plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club, on October 2, 2025 in Sochi, Russia. Sam Meredith, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025 In order to win a war—especially a war that threatened the nation’s very existence—the federal government enjoyed plenary power to liberate slaves, as nations at war had commonly done long before the Constitution was drafted and ratified. Akhil Reed Amar, Time, 22 Sep. 2025 The romantic sci-fi drama, produced by Cerita Films and starring Sheila Dara Aisha and Dion Wiyoko, was confirmed as the country’s submission by the Indonesian Oscar Selection Committee following a plenary meeting. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 Sep. 2025 But European Parliament President Roberta Metsola denied the request and said procedural rules requiring tributes had to be formally submitted at the opening of a plenary session. Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for plenary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for plenary
Adjective
  • Researchers revealed that the project covers the entire development chain – from innovative semiconductors and high-performance power modules to integration into key components such as on-board chargers and traction inverters.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 12 Feb. 2026
  • Force-feeding waterways the excess nutrients in fertilizer can upend entire ecosystems and spur algae blooms.
    Rachel Becker, Los Angeles Times, 12 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The carbohydrates from this breakfast are coming from the whole-grain toast but also the spinach and fruit.
    Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Sidney Crosby has been under pressure his whole life.
    Josh Yohe, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Under the current appropriations, a full statewide implementation was not feasible.
    Raynee Howell, Oklahoma Watch, 9 Feb. 2026
  • That plate represents a full day of eating, not every meal, Mokari said.
    Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 9 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Jesse Minter’s first Baltimore Ravens coaching staff is not complete.
    Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
  • As vehicles become increasingly software-defined and electrified, EMB systems are emerging as a cornerstone of next-generation braking, widely viewed by engineers as one of the most advanced and complete solutions for how cars should stop.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 8 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The city plans to roll out a comprehensive outreach campaign so residents are aware of the registration process and can learn more about converting their properties into pollinator gardens.
    Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Desmond Lamb is the executive director of Friends of Yates, a comprehensive community agency in Wyandotte County that operates a domestic violence shelter.
    Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Garrett added 60 total tackles, tying a career high.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Some economists suggested last week's rise could be statistical noise, and the total number remains relatively low compared with history.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Social media can intensify the belief that the day needs to look perfect, which raises pressure and fear of embarrassment or rejection.
    Melissa Willets, Parents, 11 Feb. 2026
  • There are paintings and sculptures and intricate masks from far-off lands; laboratory and astronomical equipment; second-hand furniture and mirrors; clothing (perfect for early Halloween shopping) and… well, the list goes on and on, covering nine departments and 90,000-plus square feet of shopping.
    John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Plenary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/plenary. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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