Meaning
What does Full Monty mean?
Full Monty is a popular British slang expression, used to signify that something contains the whole amount expected, or the full thing.
It was popularized globally in 1997, when the British comedy movie, titled The Full Monty premiered.
Although the phrase is not frequently used outside of Great Britain, in the United Kingdom, it is still a popular way of highlighting the presence of all things expected.
Alternatively, “Full Monty” may also signify a striptease dance, usually performed by a man, although this is one of the lesser used meanings.
Origin
What's the origin of Full Monty?
Although the exact origin of the phrase “Full Monty” is not known, there are several hypotheses about its emergence.
One prominent theory states that it comes from the name of one Field Marshal Montgomery, who, during World War 1, insisted on soldiers eating a full English breakfast.
Another theory connects the expression to the fully tailored three-piece suit, called “The Full Montague Burton.”
Neither of these etymologies are confirmed, though, so no other alternative origin may be ruled out for “Full Monty.”
Spread & Usage
How did Full Monty spread?
By the second half of the 20th century, “Full Monty” was already a popular slang expression in the United Kingdom, which was only exasperated in 1997, when the famous British comedy film, “The Full Monty” premiered.
With a hilarious cast, the success of the movie ensured the rapid spread and recognition of the expression, taking it across the globe.
Although “Full Monty” may be recognized by many across the whole world, it’s still mainly used in Great Britain, or by Brits.