eminence

em-i-nence · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Fame or recognized superiority, especially within a particular sphere or profession.

  2. 2.

    (Often capitalized) A title of respect used when addressing or referring to a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church.

  3. 3.

    A piece of rising ground; a high or elevated place.

Forms

plural: eminences

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Your Eminence — formal address for a cardinal
  • •
    rise to eminence — to achieve a position of distinction

Related words

Antonyms: anonymity, insignificance, obscurity
See also: distinction, eminent, prominence
Synonyms: distinction, prestige, prominence, renown

Etymology

From Latin eminentia ("prominence, projection"), from eminere ("to stand out, project"), from ex- ("out") + minere ("to project"). First used in English in the early 15th century.