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Definition of namely

namely

/ˈneɪm.li/
name · ly
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namely Lexical Profile

namely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

That is to say; specifically (used to introduce detailed information or a specific name that clarifies a preceding general statement).

Example

"Only one student passed the advanced placement exam, namely Sarah."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for namely

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'for example' (e.g.), which introduces one or more partial illustrations, 'namely' (i.e.) introduces an exhaustive specification of the exact item or items previously mentioned.

• Rhymes for namely

• Nearby Words

nameable
nameless
namelessness
namely
nameplate
namesake
nametag

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the noun 'name' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', originally meaning 'especially' or 'in particular' before shifting to its modern specifying sense.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Namely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/namely
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