absolutely

adverb

ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē 

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

Next to it, an absolutely massive fenced-in lot, is the gravesite of the Trump Plaza, imploded after shedding chunks of itself onto Pacific and Mississippi avenues, hundreds of feet below. —Jonathan Rowe, SPIN, 18 Dec. 2024

And Maria McManus has been strong: It’s priced beautifully, the product is absolutely gorgeous, and the messaging is incredible. —Mark Holgate, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024

Intense and floral with tons of fun and unique flavors that would absolutely pop with the bitterness of vermouth or the sweetness of citrus, just waiting to be turned into a dry Martini. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

That would absolutely be an escalation by the government of North Korea. —Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

absolutely

adverb

ab·​so·​lute·​ly ˈab-sə-ˌlüt-lē 

ˌab-sə-ˈlüt-

: in an absolute way : completely or definitely

you are absolutely right