Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

all-hands-on-deck

idiomatic expression

/ɔːl hændz ɒn dɛk/

Definition

A phrase used to indicate that everyone’s assistance is needed to deal with a situation or task.

Examples

During the emergency, it was an all-hands-on-deck situation as everyone worked together to ensure safety.
With the deadline approaching, the team called for an all-hands-on-deck meeting to discuss strategies.
The project was behind schedule, so it was all-hands-on-deck to get it back on track.

Meaning

The expression ‘all-hands-on-deck’ means that all available people should help out, especially in a time of emergency or when a project requires extra effort.