relatively

adverb

rel·​a·​tive·​ly ˈre-lə-tiv-lē How to pronounce relatively (audio)
: to a relative degree or extent : somewhat
a relatively small group of people
relatively cool weather
The house is relatively new.
Phrases
relatively speaking
1
: when compared to others that are similar
The procedure was quick, relatively speaking.
Relatively speaking, the movie wasn't bad.
2
used to say that something is true or correct as a general statement even if it is not entirely true or correct
The trip was, relatively speaking, a disaster.

Examples of relatively in a Sentence

these newly acquired in-laws felt relatively comfortable at our family reunion
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.
In a linear pathway, the progression of AI toward AGI is relatively equal each year and consists of a gradual incremental climb from conventional AI to AGI. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 But at a price point just north of $500, that’s a relatively small gripe for an otherwise sound piece of equipment. Amy Wilkinson, SELF, 1 July 2025 So far, the country's outbound shipments have held up relatively strong over the past two months, as exporters pivoted to alternative markets, notably Southeast Asian countries and European Union nations. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 July 2025 While sightings in urban areas like Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa are relatively uncommon, Florida black bears become more active during spring and summer and can sometimes be seen in unexpected places, said Thompson, assigned to the wildlife agency’s division of Habitat and Species Conservation. Stephen Hudak, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for relatively

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of relatively was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Relatively.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relatively. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

relatively

adverb
rel·​a·​tive·​ly
ˈrel-ət-iv-lē

More from Merriam-Webster on relatively

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!