somewhat

1 of 2

pronoun

some·​what ˈsəm-ˌ(h)wət 

ˈsəm-ˌ(h)wät, 

(ˌ)səm-ˈ(h)wət, 

(ˌ)səm-ˈ(h)wät

: something

somewhat

2 of 2

adverb

: in some degree or measure : slightly

Synonyms of somewhat

Adverb

• pretty
• relatively
• quite
• rather
• fairly
• something
• enough

Examples of somewhat in a Sentence

Adverb

He felt somewhat awkward in his suit.

Our work has progressed somewhat.

The course is somewhat more difficult than I was told it would be.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adverb

Most of the survey period took place before the recent ceasefire headlines and ensuing market bounce, suggesting the findings may already be somewhat stale. —Yun Li, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026

Certainly, there’s a case for spending somewhat more on defense, given mounting geopolitical risks — but there’s also scope for overdue economies and greater efficiency. —Bloomberg Opinion, Twin Cities, 14 Apr. 2026

Kani thinks about his role in this production somewhat like his role as a grandfather. —Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026

Still, the show seems to tread somewhat carefully, with selections that appear less overtly political than other artworks that are in the museum’s holdings. —Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Pronoun

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing somewhat

• somewhat of

Rhymes for somewhat

• butternut
• cocoanut
• coconut
• hazelnut
• undercut
• abut
• catgut
• chesnut
• chestnut
• donut
• doughnut
• groundnut

Kids Definition

somewhat

1 of 2 pronoun

some·​what ˈsəm-ˌ(h)wät 

-ˌ(h)wət;

(ˌ)səm-ˈ(h)wät, 

-ˈ(h)wət

: some unspecified part or amount : something

somewhat of what you say is true

somewhat

2 of 2 adverb

: in some measure : slightly

somewhat comfortable