the better part of (something)

the better part of (something)

The majority of something. I'm sorry I'm late—my doctor's appointment took the better part of an hour.See also: better, of, part

the better/best part of something

most of something: I worked at the camp for the better part of the summer. ♢ He had lived there for the best part of fifty years.See also: better, of, part, something