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
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.
The San Diego Padres' offseason has been absolutely abysmal. Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 For relatively new faces, physical presence on the trail is paramount; compare them to A Complete Unknown’s Monica Barbaro, who was absolutely everywhere in the season’s home stretch and earned an Oscar nomination for her trouble. Nate Jones, Vulture, 28 Jan. 2025 Looking beyond Swift and Beyonce, this category is absolutely loaded with great storylines and possible winners. Jim Harrington, The Mercury News, 28 Jan. 2025 This alarm clock absolutely helped our tester’s daughter become more independent and was a huge help in the mornings, teaching her what time the day needs to start. Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 28 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for absolutely 

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 2 Feb. 2025.

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
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