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

On Wednesday’s conference call, Zuckerberg and Li can be heard absolutely salivating at the money to be made this way, as Muse gets marketed toward ubiquity. — Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026

Know More The Senate race is absolutely everywhere in Iowa, which is also home to three competitive House races and a governor’s race (Democrat Rob Sand is now favored to defeat Republican Zach Lahn). — Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 22 Oct. 2026

The whole scene was yet more evidence of a league that is absolutely booming. — Don Riddell, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026

Our bullpen was absolutely exhausted by the end of the season. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 22 Oct. 2026

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