prominence

[prom-uh-nuhns]

noun

1. Also prominency. the state of being prominent; conspicuousness.

2. something that is prominent; a projection or protuberance.

   a prominence high over a ravine.

   Synonyms: peak, precipice, height, promontory

3. Also called solar prominence. Astronomy.,  an eruption of a flamelike tongue of relatively cool, high-density gas from the solar chromosphere into the corona where it can be seen during a solar eclipse or by observing strong spectral lines in its emission spectrum.

prominence

/ ˈprɒmɪnəns /

noun

1. the state or quality of being prominent

2. something that is prominent, such as a protuberance

3. relative importance or consequence

4. astronomy an eruption of incandescent gas from the sun's surface that can reach an altitude of several hundred thousand kilometres. Prominences are visible during a total eclipse. When viewed in front of the brighter solar disc, they are called filaments

prominence

1. An eruption of tonguelike clouds of glowing ionized gas extending from the Sun's chromosphere and sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of kilometers into space. When viewed against the solar surface instead of along the edges of its disk, prominences appear as dark, sinuous lines known as filaments. Usually associated with sunspot activity, solar prominences can influence Earth's atmosphere by interfering with electromagnetic activity.

2. ◆ Active prominences erupt suddenly and usually disappear within minutes or hours. Quiescent prominences form more smoothly and can last for several months.

3. See also solar flare

Other Word Forms

• nonprominence noun
• overprominence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of prominence¹

First recorded in 1590–1600, prominence is from the Latin word prōminentia a jutting out, protuberance. See prominent, -ence

Example Sentences

The psychological novel gained prominence as the 19th-century world became mapped and colonized, the mind offering a new realm for discovery.

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The Seattle-based company rose to prominence with online listings, but has over time diversified into mortgage origination and software for real estate professionals and strengthened its rental-listings business.

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The prominence of these Christian genres, which are almost exclusively associated with white evangelical culture, worried some progressive commentators who feared their propaganda value.

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It is a significant shift in political tone which gives more prominence to skills training linked to jobs.

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He came to prominence at Ostersund in Sweden before being appointed manager of Swansea in June 2018, and his development and attractive playing style earned him a move to Brighton a year later.

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Related Words

• celebrity 
• eminence 
• fame 
• greatness 
• importance 
• prestige 
• renown 
• reputation 
• standing