Eminent
mediumPositive toneEM-ih-nunt
adjective
Definition
Famous and respected within a particular field; outstanding
Memory hook
EM-I-NENT: 'I' stand out from the crowd — famous and respected in a field (not imminent = soon).
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The eminent scientist was awarded the Nobel Prize.”
“Several eminent historians disputed the findings.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ scientist was awarded the Nobel Prize.”
Show answer
eminent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Eminent is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "distinguished" or "renowned" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "obscure".
Related GRE Words
signal
(adjective) Notably or conspicuously outstanding
paramount
More important than anything else; supreme
principal
First in order of importance; main; the head of a school
relegate
to assign to a lower or less important position; to banish
stigma
a mark of disgrace or shame
tarnish
to spoil or damage (a reputation); to dull a surface's luster
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