prominent Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite having a quality that thrusts itself into attention
    striking; salient; spectacular; outstanding.
    • an outstanding fact of our time is that nations poisoned by anti semitism proved less fortunate in regard to their own freedom
    • a new theory is the most prominent feature of the book
    • salient traits
    • a spectacular rise in prices
    • a striking thing about Picadilly Circus is the statue of Eros in the center
    • a striking resemblance between parent and child
  2. adjective satellite conspicuous in position or importance
    large; big.
    • a big figure in the movement
    • big man on campus
    • he's very large in financial circles
    • a prominent citizen

WordNet

Prom"i*nent adjective
Etymology
L. prominens, -entis, p. pr. of prominere to jut out, to project; pro before, forward + minere (in comp.) to jut, project: cf. F. prominent. See Imminent, Eminent.
Definitions
  1. Standing out, or projecting, beyond the line surface of something; jutting; protuberant; in high relief; as, a prominent figure on a vase.
  2. Hence; Distinctly manifest; likely to attract attention from its size or position; conspicuous; as, a prominent feature of the face; a prominent building.
  3. Eminent; distinguished above others; as, a prominent character.

Webster 1913