namely

adverb

name·​ly ˈnām-lē 

: that is to say : to wit

Synonyms of namely

• especially
• specifically
• specially
• to wit

Examples of namely in a Sentence

there's always one person stuck with cleaning up the mess, namely me

Recent Examples on the Web

Plus, some companies—namely General Motors—have found clever ways to monetize that validation. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 10 Sep. 2026

Since the 2021 Venice International Film Festival, Maison Cartier has supported a host of initiatives that aim to protect the city’s living heritage, namely by contributing to the ongoing development of Venice’s cultural life. — Caitlin White, Variety, 9 Sep. 2026

Alas, by disguising themselves in earthling form, these superior beings must submit themselves to the worst indignities of the human condition — namely the frequent need to go to the bathroom and the constant nuisance of dealing with emotions. — Cortlyn Kelly, IndieWire, 8 Sep. 2026

Now, the franchise transitions its key focus from the drug game to the music industry, namely the rise of West Coast rap. — Erin Lassner, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for namely

• gamely
• lamely
• tamely

Kids Definition

namely

adverb

name·​ly ˈnām-lē 

: that is to say

the cat family, namely, lions, tigers, and related animals