at heart

phrase

: in essence : basically, essentially
a romantic at heart

Examples of at heart in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since 2024, a new system of permits has designated four categories of mudlark, a satisfyingly ornate regime for what is, at heart, a deeply painstaking activity. — Sam Knight, New Yorker, 17 July 2026 For the nostalgic at heart, this Gap logo hoodie feels straight from the early aughts—in the best way. — Morgan Sullivan, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 July 2026 Hunter Pence, a nerd at heart, spent money from his first paycheck to buy himself a gaming computer to play World of Warcraft. — Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1735, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of at heart was in 1735

Rhymes for at heart

See All Rhymes for at heart

Browse Nearby Words

athbash
at heart
Athecae
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“At heart.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20heart. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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