eminently

adverb

em·​i·​nent·​ly ˈe-mə-nənt-lē How to pronounce eminently (audio)
: to a high degree : very
eminently worthy
an eminently sensible plan

Did you know?

Eminently Has a Stand Out History

When British physician Tobias Venner wrote in 1620 of houses "somewhat eminently situated," he meant that the houses were literally located in a high place. That use has since slipped into obsolescence, as has the word's use to mean "conspicuously"—a sense that reflects its Latin root, ēminēre, which means "to stick out" or “protrude.” The figurative sense of “notably” or “very” that is prominent today was likely a new development when Venner was writing.

Examples of eminently in a Sentence

an applicant who is eminently qualified for the job
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Two highly modern, eminently civilized nations were plunged into chaos. Kelly McKinney, Twin Cities, 18 May 2025 And the games will be eminently shoppable, so Amazon and its advertisers can turn spots into instant sales. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 12 May 2025 Regardless, the concert was a welcome testament to the transformative power of John’s music to uplift listeners — and the apparently ailing legend himself — while supporting an eminently worthy cause. George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 May 2025 That means the building — near the water, walking distance to first-rate shopping, dining, schools and the beach — has remained a safe, attractive and eminently affordable place to live for its owners and residents, who include retirees and young couples and families. Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eminently

Word History

First Known Use

1616, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eminently was in 1616

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Cite this Entry

“Eminently.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eminently. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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