SHOOT THE WORKS

v. phr. , slang 1. To spare no expense or effort; get or give everything. Billy shot the works when he bought his bicycle; he got a bell, a light, a basket, and chrome trimmings on it, too. The Greens shot the works on their daughter's wedding reception. 2. To go the limit; take a risk. The motor of Tom's boat was dangerously hot, but he decided to shoot the works and try to win the race.