absolutely

adverb

ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē 

ˌab-sə-ˈlüt-

1

: in an absolute manner: such as

a

: completely or totally

absolutely certain

an absolutely clear explanation

—often used as an intensive

an absolutely brilliant performance

an absolutely awful experience

You're absolutely right.

b

: with unlimited power

ruling absolutely

2

a

—used in speech as a forceful way of saying "yes" or of expressing agreement

"Would you like to see a movie tonight?" "Absolutely!"

"We all need to work harder." "Absolutely!"

b

—used in speech in the phrase absolutely not as a forceful way of saying "no" or of expressing disagreement

"Do you think he's right?" "Absolutely not!"

3

mathematics : with respect to absolute values

an absolutely convergent series

Examples of absolutely in a Sentence

He is absolutely certain who will win.

Let me make one thing absolutely clear.

Keep absolutely quiet during the movie.

Recent Examples on the Web

So fun to see Dina absolutely swooning over her dreamy guitarist (soon-to-be) girlfriend. —Ben Travers, IndieWire, 4 May 2025

Maintaining some air of in-person wonder is absolutely vital to getting to know another person for real. —Alex Abad-Santos, Vox, 3 May 2025

Without further ado, please find absolutely everything that crossed my mind while watching Another Simple Favor. —Emma Specter, Vogue, 2 May 2025

My last point of endorsement: This is one of the few mainstream Dracula adaptations that hints at the erotic energy between Mina and her best friend Lucy Westenra who, spoiler, goes absolutely mad with horniness (relatable). —James Factora, Them., 2 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from absolut absolute + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for absolutely

• acutely
• astutely
• mutely
• resolutely

Kids Definition

absolutely

adverb

ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē 

ˌab-sə-ˈlüt-

: in an absolute way : completely or definitely

you are absolutely right