adj

eminent

EH-mih-nuhnt

adj

Famous and respected, especially in a particular profession.

"An eminent historian was invited to give the keynote speech."

"She is one of the most eminent scientists of her generation."

How to Use Eminent

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWell known and highly respected, usually because of achievement in a field.

Common mistake

Do not confuse with imminent (about to happen) or immanent (existing within) — all three are pronounced similarly but mean very different things.

Easily confused with

imminent → immanent

Common pairings

eminent scholar eminent domain an eminent figure

more eminent comparative, most eminent superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Can you complete this real example?

An _____ historian was invited to give the keynote speech.

From Latin eminens, present participle of eminere, "to stand out, project," from ex- ("out") plus a root related to mons ("mountain").

imminent continent pertinent prominent impertinent incontinent