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

The one cool trick to breaking through and generating momentum via crowdfunding is that there is absolutely no cool trick. —Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 29 Apr. 2026

Here's video of a streamer getting absolutely demolished while walking on the side of the road for charity. —Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026

But is this T-shirt absolutely the coolest? —Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 29 Apr. 2026

People that maybe have a more precarious position in the industry and are worried and see AI as a threat — which is absolutely valid — and younger people, younger actors and musicians. —Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for absolutely

• acutely
• astutely
• mutely
• resolutely

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