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

The public and our employees deserve confidence that concerns can be raised without fear of consequences, which is why an impartial and thorough review of these matters is absolutely necessary. —Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 17 June 2026

The Pitt is close to an inevitable winner, especially since the two best new dramas in this category — Pluribus and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms — are both absolutely comedies. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026

Fox's paranormal sci-fi series was absolutely beyond its time and still holds up well over a decade after its five-season run ended. —Jeff Spry, Space.com, 17 June 2026

There is absolutely no swashbuckling. —ABC News, 17 June 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