: to a high degree : very
eminently worthy
an eminently sensible plan

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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.
Ederson’s example suggests that this particular flaw in Penders’ game is eminently fixable. Liam Twomey, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025 Yes, April Perry, an eminently qualified candidate and someone who would have ended the shameful history of the white male club of U.S. attorneys in Chicago, should have sailed through Congress. Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2025 Like, not even allowing for the (eminently plausible) possibility that Lochlan is gay? Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 2 Mar. 2025 In that sense, young people have an eminently rational reason to hold off on seeking partnership: The deadline is extended. Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 10 Mar. 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 26 Mar. 2025.

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