apparently

adverb

ap·​par·​ent·​ly ə-ˈper-ənt-lē How to pronounce apparently (audio)
-ˈpa-rənt
: it seems apparent
used to describe something that appears to be true based on what is known
an apparently happy marriage
The window had apparently been forced open.
Apparently, we're supposed to wait here.

Examples of apparently in a Sentence

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.
Playing a rock star in Rock of Ages apparently didn’t satisfy Tom Cruise‘s instinct to sing onscreen. Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 12 May 2025 The Justice Department apparently repudiated that position shortly after expressing it, which suggests that all parts of the executive branch weren’t quite working from the same playbook, at least initially, even after that year of internal discussion. Marie Sapirie, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025 Still, the Mets apparently are interested in him and a change of scenery could do him well. Andrew Wright, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025 It’s stylized, grotesque — and apparently, mother-repellent. Clayton Davis, Variety, 11 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for apparently

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aparenly, apparently "clearly, plainly," from apparaunt, apparent apparent + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of apparently was in 1566

Cite this Entry

“Apparently.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apparently. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

apparently

adverb
ap·​par·​ent·​ly ə-ˈpar-ənt-lē How to pronounce apparently (audio)
-ˈper-
: it seems apparent : evidently
the door had apparently been forced open
apparently, we're supposed to wait here

More from Merriam-Webster on apparently

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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