prominent

The word “prominent” means important, well known, or widely respected. In plain terms, standing out — either physically (visible/large) or socially (important, well known).

“Prominent” is pronounced PRO-mih-nuhnt (/ˈpɹɑmɪnənt/ in IPA).

Here is “prominent” used in a sentence: “A prominent local businessman donated the money for the new library.”

“Prominent” is an adjective.

The word “prominent” comes from Latin. From obsolete French prominent, from Latin prōminēns ("jutting out"), from prō- ("forward") plus mineō ("to project").

“Prominent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Prominent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: important, well known, or widely respected.

"Prominent" means important, well known, or widely respected within a field or community. "Famous" means known to very large numbers of people. A prominent scientist may be respected in their field without being famous to the general public.

"Prominent" can mean important, well known, or widely respected, as in "a prominent lawyer." It can also mean easily noticeable because of size or position, as in "a prominent nose." Context shows whether status or physical visibility is meant.

Both describe people of high standing, but "prominent" stresses being widely known or noticeable, while "eminent" stresses distinction and being highly respected for achievement. An eminent professor is admired for expertise; a prominent one is simply well known.