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

Tammie Rosen, beloved film festival mainstay, indefatigable publicist, absolutely devoted Bruce Springsteen fan, and friend to so many in the indie film world, has passed away after a battle with cancer. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 3 Dec. 2025

If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. —Amanda Greenwood, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2025

And Lexi [Maude Apatow] is an assistant to a showrunner played by Sharon Stone, who is just absolutely delightful and a true icon. —Sydney Bucksbaum, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Dec. 2025

The internet is absolutely obsessed with Heated Rivalry. —Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 2 Dec. 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