The phrase "the whole shebang" is an idiomatic expression meaning "everything," "all of it," or "the entire thing"
. It originated around the time of the American Civil War, with the word "shebang" itself having multiple early meanings, including a type of dwelling, a vehicle, or a drinking establishment
. The exact etymology of "shebang" is uncertain, but it may have been influenced by Irish or French words related to huts or illicit drinking places, such as the Irish "síbín" (source of "shebeen") or the French "chabane" (meaning hut)
. The phrase "the whole shebang" likely evolved from the general sense of "shebang" as a building or vehicle and its contents, extending metaphorically to mean the entirety of whatever is being discussed
. It is used to convey the idea of the complete set or everything involved in a situation
. In summary, "the whole shebang" means the entire thing or everything involved, with origins tracing back to mid-19th century American English and possible influences from Irish and French terms
