eminence
UK: ˈemɪnəns | US: ˈemɪnəns
n. high rank, fame, or superiority in position, quality, or achievement
n. (formal) a title of honor for a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church
n. (geography) a raised or elevated area of land
eminence = e<out> + min<project> + ence<noun suffix>
- e<out>: From Latin ex- (out of, from).
- min<project>: From Latin minere (to project, jut out), related to mons (mountain).
- ence<noun suffix>: Forms abstract nouns indicating state or quality (e.g., "excellence").
Etymology Origin:
The word "eminence" traces back to Latin eminentia, derived from eminēre (to stand out, project). It originally described physical prominence (e.g., a hill) and later metaphorically extended to social or intellectual distinction. The suffix -ence solidified its meaning as an abstract noun. The term’s evolution mirrors the logic of visibility—what "stands out" literally or figuratively commands respect.
The scientist achieved eminence in her field after decades of groundbreaking research.
His Eminence Cardinal Rossi presided over the ceremony.
The castle was built on a rocky eminence overlooking the valley.
Her eminence as a writer was recognized with a prestigious award.
The eminence of the ancient ruins attracts thousands of tourists annually.