absolutely

adverb

ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē How to pronounce absolutely (audio)
ˌab-sə-ˈlüt-
1
: in an absolute manner: such as
a
: completely or totally
absolutely certain
an absolutely clear explanation
often used as an intensive
an absolutely brilliant performance
an absolutely awful experience
You're absolutely right.
b
: with unlimited power
ruling absolutely
2
a
used in speech as a forceful way of saying "yes" or of expressing agreement
"Would you like to see a movie tonight?" "Absolutely!"
"We all need to work harder." "Absolutely!"
b
used in speech in the phrase absolutely not as a forceful way of saying "no" or of expressing disagreement
"Do you think he's right?" "Absolutely not!"
3
mathematics : with respect to absolute values
an absolutely convergent series

Examples of absolutely in a Sentence

He is absolutely certain who will win. Let me make one thing absolutely clear. Keep absolutely quiet during the movie.
Recent Examples on the Web To lose their youngest child in such a violent and senseless manner is absolutely heartbreaking. Angel Saunders, Peoplemag, 5 June 2024 Since there is absolutely no evidence for this theory that anyone has yet produced, Plan B has been to smear anyone in the firing line. Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2024 Though the 1948 British drama of the same name may be the most famous iteration, this twisted modern take is palpably tense and absolutely worth your time. EW.com, 2 June 2024 So, yes, absolutely, President Trump needs to be carrying his message to the American people. ABC News, 2 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for absolutely 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'absolutely.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from absolut absolute + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of absolutely was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near absolutely

Cite this Entry

“Absolutely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absolutely. Accessed 8 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

absolutely

adverb
ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē How to pronounce absolutely (audio)
ˌab-sə-ˈlüt-
: in an absolute way : completely or definitely
you are absolutely right
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!