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prominence

n.
US //ˈpɹɑmənəns// UK //pɹˈɒmɪnəns// promi·nence
  1. 1 fame or importance (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the state of being famous, important, or very easy to notice.

    the state of being widely known, eminent, or particularly noticeable.

    Example

    The young actress rose to prominence after her performance in the summer blockbuster.

    Example

    The issue of climate change has gained increasing prominence in international political discourse over the last decade.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'gain', 'rise to', or 'achieve'.
  2. 2 a physical projection (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    a part of something that sticks out or bulges from a surface.

    a physical protuberance or projection from a surface or body.

    Example

    The doctor felt a small bony prominence on the patient's elbow.

    Example

    The architect designed the building with several stone prominences to create interesting shadows during the afternoon.

    Usage

    Common in medical and architectural descriptions.
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  1. 3 mountain height (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical

    the height of a mountain peak compared to the lowest point around it.

    the vertical distance between a peak and the lowest contour line surrounding it but containing no higher peak.

    Example

    Even though the hill is small, its prominence makes it look like a mountain.

    Example

    Topographic prominence is a key criterion for hikers who wish to classify a summit as an independent peak rather than a sub-peak.

    Usage

    Used as an uncountable concept or a countable measurement.
  2. 4 solar flare (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a large, bright loop of gas that sticks out from the surface of the Sun.

    a large, bright, gaseous feature extending outward from the Sun's surface, often in a loop shape.

    Example

    The scientist used a special telescope to photograph a massive prominence on the Sun.

    Example

    During the total solar eclipse, observers were able to see a vivid red prominence erupting from the solar limb.
Origin

From obsolete French prominence (compare proéminence), from Latin prominentia.

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