Eminent Definition, Usage, and Examples

Meaning 1：famous and respected (eminent)

eminent 🔊

/ˈɛmɪnənt/

adj.

Famous and respected because of being very good at something, usually for a long time.

Eminent scholar in graduation gown admired by students at university

famous and respected 🔊

➕

/ˈfeɪməs ænd rɪˈspɛktɪd/

adj.

Describes someone who is widely known and admired for their outstanding abilities or achievements, often over a long period.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：advanced

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'eminere' (to stand out), from 'e-' (out) + 'minere' (to project).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'e' (out) + 'minent' (like 'minaret' projecting high). An eminent person stands out.

📖 Example

In our history class, we learned about an eminent scientist whose discoveries changed the world. 🔊 In our history class, we learned about an eminent scientist whose discoveries changed the world.

🔗 Collocations

eminent scholar – a highly respected and accomplished academic

eminent domain – the legal right of a government to take private property for public use

eminent scientist – a famous and respected scientist known for significant contributions

🔄 Synonyms

distinguished (adj.) – Marked by excellence or eminence; respected

prominent (adj.) – Important and well-known; widely recognized

notable (adj.) – Worthy of attention or notice; remarkable

🚫 Antonyms

unknown (adj.) – Not known or familiar; obscure

obscure (adj.) – Not well-known; hard to notice

undistinguished (adj.) – Lacking distinction; ordinary

🌱 Derivatives

eminently (adv.) – to a notable degree; very

preeminent (adj.) – superior to all others; outstanding

eminence (n.) – a position of prominence or superiority

📖 Cultural Story

Eminent derives from Latin 'eminens' meaning 'projecting, standing out'. It entered English in the 15th century, often used for people of high rank or achievement.