Definition of prominentnext
1
2

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective prominent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of prominent are conspicuous, noticeable, outstanding, remarkable, salient, and striking. While all these words mean "attracting notice or attention," prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

When might conspicuous be a better fit than prominent?

The words conspicuous and prominent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

When can noticeable be used instead of prominent?

The words noticeable and prominent can be used in similar contexts, but noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

Where would outstanding be a reasonable alternative to prominent?

The meanings of outstanding and prominent largely overlap; however, outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

In what contexts can remarkable take the place of prominent?

The synonyms remarkable and prominent are sometimes interchangeable, but remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

When is it sensible to use salient instead of prominent?

In some situations, the words salient and prominent are roughly equivalent. However, salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

When could striking be used to replace prominent?

Although the words striking and prominent have much in common, striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

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 prominent Over the past couple of months, Bronin’s firm also paid for advertising tens of thousands of dollars to the prominent Democratic consulting firm SKDK for advertising and media protection and spent more than $150,000 on direct mail services. Lisa Hagen, Hartford Courant, 17 July 2026 Also prominent on the left of the image is the shining nebula NGC 6729, which is a reflection nebula of the Corona Australis Molecular Cloud. Robert Lea, Space.com, 17 July 2026 The four main cast members — the eponymous Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Elaine Benes), Jason Alexander (George Costanza) and Michael Richards (Cosmo Kramer) — have children, as does the most prominent recurring actor, Wayne Knight (Newman). Alexandra Schonfeld, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026 Siri is one of the most prominent advocates challenging American health agencies and vaccine makers over alleged injuries. CNN Money, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for prominent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prominent
Adjective
  • North America was the main surprise, while Africa also contributed a noticeable share of the increase from a much smaller base.
    Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
  • Frustingly for Croatia, Matanović’s tiny touch was barely noticeable with the naked eye.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • That sequence would be remembered as one of the more famous, hilarious stretches in recent golf history, maybe even the core memory of Spieth’s ever-entertaining prime.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 14 July 2026
  • Rather than occupying both the Roosevelt’s famous poolside cabanas and the hotel’s upper floor suites, next year, the Felix will restrict its offerings to the two-story cabanas, fostering a more personal and consolidated experience.
    News Desk, Artforum, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • Edwards, who had been the commanding officer of HSC-5 since July 2025, was posthumously promoted to captain, the Navy said in a statement.
    Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 9 July 2026
  • And beyond all the light and magic of their goals, this was just a very commanding team performance.
    Jack Lang, New York Times, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Five Star Weekend follows Jennifer Garner as Hollis Shaw, a famed cook and best-selling author known for her delicious recipes, impeccable taste, and warm demeanor, who suffers a devastating loss.
    Katie Campione, Deadline, 17 July 2026
  • Cunningham himself would make the famed sprint across the track to start the race, taking the first stint behind the wheel.
    Howard Walker, Robb Report, 17 July 2026
Adjective
  • Beyond that, there is the knowledge that every game, every performance, every dramatic intervention on Argentina’s behalf, is embellishing a sporting legacy that already seemed complete.
    Oliver Kay, New York Times, 19 July 2026
  • Other players took center stage in Friday’s summer league finale to help the Sacramento Kings leave Las Vegas with a dramatic win over the Charlotte Hornets.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Côtes de Provence is one of the world's most celebrated wine regions, producing around 90% of its output in rosé.
    Karli Poliziani, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • Jackson once again claims more R&B hits in America than any other artist, and one of his most celebrated singles even manages to hit a new peak decades after its release.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • Smith’s June letter is a remarkable move from the owner of a media company.
    Max Tani, semafor.com, 15 July 2026
  • That affords regenerative braking at a remarkable 600-kilowatt rate, without overcooking components.
    Lawrence Ulrich, Robb Report, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • Pattinson’s role as The Odyssey’s villain marks his second project with the renowned director.
    Emma Urdangen, PEOPLE, 18 July 2026
  • But that hasn’t stopped one of the country’s increasingly renowned grape-growing regions from punching well above its weight.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 18 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prominent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prominent. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on prominent

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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