# eminence

/ˈɛmənəns/ (US) · /ˈɛmɪnəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/eminence
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a high position of importance or fame because of great skill or success. It describes someone who is very respected in their field.

For teachers: the state of being famous, respected, or successful within a particular sphere. Often used to describe intellectual or professional standing.

## Examples

- She reached a position of great eminence in the medical world.
- The university invited several scholars of international eminence to speak at the graduation ceremony.
- Despite his early failures, he eventually achieved such eminence in the field of theoretical physics that his theories became the standard for the next generation.

## Usage notes

- Often appears in the phrase 'a person of eminence' or 'reach eminence'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.