eminence

noun

em·​i·​nence ˈe-mə-nən(t)s 

1

: a position of prominence or superiority

2

: one that is eminent, prominent, or lofty: such as

a

: a person of high rank or attainments

—often used as a title for a cardinal

b

: a natural elevation

c

: an anatomical protuberance (as on a bone)

Synonyms of eminence

• dominance
• reputation
• superiority
• repute
• distinction
• supremacy
• renown

Examples of eminence in a Sentence

the eminence of the Nobel Prize in the field of awards and prizes

the old citadel sits on an eminence with a commanding view of the city

Recent Examples on the Web

Many pop stars mellow into stately eminence in middle age, as Madonna (temporarily) did in her late 30s with 1998’s Ray of Light. —Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 11 Mar. 2026

That’s drawn sharp attacks from Conyears-Ervin’s opponents, given the special interest group’s eminence as a leading target of the political left following the 2023 Gaza war. —Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026

Laura’s existential crisis hinges on if resigning from it might empower her, but with its New York cultural eminence, there’s a whole company of employees waiting to work again, coupled with her role as the family breadwinner. —David Katz, IndieWire, 16 Feb. 2026

The 2025 Broncos returned to eminence. —Troy Renck, Denver Post, 1 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "exalted position, protuberance," borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, borrowed from Latin eminentia "state of standing out or projecting, protuberance," noun derivative of ēminent-, ēminens "standing out above a surface, projecting, outstanding in merit or importance" — more at eminent

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing eminence

• gray eminence

Rhymes for eminence

• remanence
• preeminence

Kids Definition

eminence

noun

em·​i·​nence ˈem-ə-nən(t)s 

1

: the condition of being eminent

2

a

: a person of high rank or achievements

—often used as a title for a cardinal

b

: an area of high ground : height

Medical Definition

eminence

noun

em·​i·​nence ˈem-ə-nən(t)s 

: a protuberance or projection on a bodily part and especially a bone