utter

/ˈʌtə/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: uttermore · utmost · uttermost · utters

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To the furthest or most extreme extent; absolute, complete, total, unconditional.

Adjective

Examples

utter bliss    utter darkness    utter ruin

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Of decisions, replies, etc.: made in an unconditional or unqualified manner; decisive, definite.

Adjective

Examples

There could not then be any other eſtimate made of the loſs VValler ſuſtain'd, than by the not purſuing the viſible advantage he had, and by the utter refuſal of the Auxiliary Regiments of London and Kent, to march farther; […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Senses relating to expressing sounds, etc., or disclosing something — Sometimes preceded by forth, out, etc.: to produce (a cry, speech, or other sounds) with the voice.

Verb

Examples

Don’t you utter another word!

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

Senses relating to expressing sounds, etc., or disclosing something — To verbally express or report (a desire or emotion, an idea or thought, etc.).

Verb

Examples

Theeſe woords, vplifting both his hands, he to Iuppiter vttred.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “utter” mean?

To the furthest or most extreme extent; absolute, complete, total, unconditional.

Is “utter” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.