1 the works | Definition of the works

the works

noun

Definition of the works

1 : the moving parts of a machine the works of a clock sometimes used figuratively The office used to be very efficient, but the new regulations have gummed up the works.
2 informal : everything that there is to have or do : everything that is available They ordered a pizza with the works. When we went to New York, we visited the museums, did some shopping, saw some shows—the whole works.