namely

adverb

ˈnām-lē How to pronounce namely (audio)
Definition of namelynext
as in especially
that is to say there's always one person stuck with cleaning up the mess, namely me

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of namely Mills’ most imminent threat is from other Republicans, namely former Fox35 anchor Ryan Elijah, who entered the race in May. — Annie Martin, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2026 The few position battles — namely between linebackers Jacob Rodriguez and Tyrel Dodson as well as defensive linemen Kenneth Grant and Jordan Phillips — will be decided by the end of training camp. — Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2026 The Cotton Viscose Voile Smocked Peplum Top has been sitting in my cart for weeks, namely for its forgiving, stretchy fit and elegant puff sleeves. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 10 Aug. 2026 Her comments have since become a topic of discussion beyond sports, namely on cable news. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 9 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for namely
Recent Examples of Synonyms for namely
  1. especially
  2. specifically
  3. specially
  4. to wit
Adverb
  • Later, a fellow resident gave him a house, and neighbors supported him, especially during his final two years of illness.
    — Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026
  • Everything feels intuitive, especially thanks to the hotel’s seamless digital app.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Aug. 2026
Definition of especially
Adverb
  • Lee said lawmakers could still introduce legislation specifically addressing the electric-shock glove before the legislative session ends on August 31.
    — Steve Large, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Tuesday’s lawsuit specifically asks the court to stop Carr from moving forward with the license challenge.
    — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of specifically
Adverb
  • Hernández-Pérez told CNN that the dogs had to be specially selected and trained in order to take part.
    — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Crafted with a solid wood frame that’s specially designed with bobbin style accents, the chair is a subtle statement piece that will make your home look straight out of a magazine.
    — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of specially
Adverb
  • The former is named for the patron saint of cooks and celebrates coastal Italian fare with a New Orleans tweak, to wit Chef Laura Collins’ Grilled Creole Oysters and Scampi Risotto.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Solo shows are everywhere, for obvious economic reasons, but now, in more than a few of these pieces, there’s another element in play for their creators — to wit, their streaming future.
    — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2025
Definition of to wit

Browse Nearby Words

namelessness
namely
name of the game
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Namely.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/namely. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on namely

Nglish: Translation of namely for Spanish Speakers

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