nonetheless
Americanadverb
Etymology
Origin of nonetheless
First recorded in 1840–50; from the phrase none the less
Compare meaning
How does nonetheless compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
This is a word that people don't usually stop and define. They use it to link two seemingly contradictory thoughts. Nonetheless, it does have a definition. It means "in spite of." Break this word up to examine its meaning: None-the-less means that the statement you've just made does not diminish or make less what comes next. We are not at all prepared to climb this mountain, nonetheless we are going to try.
Vocabulary lists containing nonetheless
100 SAT Words Beginning with "N"
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Because of Mr. Terupt
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
"A Poem for My Librarian, Mrs. Long," Vocabulary from the poem
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Nonetheless, he says it’s an overall net positive for AI companies.
From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026
Nonetheless, the possibility remains there could still be a massive planet affecting the orbits of bodies within the Kuiper Belt.
From Science Daily • Jun. 9, 2026
Nonetheless, Ellison and his team have vowed to make $6 billion in cuts following the merger, which requires regulatory approval.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026
Nonetheless, big gains in technology and energy stocks lifted the index 0.3%.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026
"Nonetheless," Maester Aemon said as his clouded, milk-white eyes moved to Tyrion's face, "I think it is true."
From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.