apparently

adverb

ap·​par·​ent·​ly ə-ˈper-ənt-lē How to pronounce apparently (audio)
-ˈpa-rənt
Synonyms of apparentlynext
: it seems apparent
—used to describe something that appears to be true based on what is known
an apparently happy marriage
The window had apparently been forced open.
Apparently, we're supposed to wait here.

Synonyms of apparently

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Examples of apparently in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our waiter, Juan, was – as all servers at Papi Steak are – quick to illuminate the kaleidoscopic dish with a pocket flashlight, apparently for documentary purposes. — Connie Ogle july 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026 Worst of all was the plight of a forty-six-year-old Italian farm worker who apparently masturbated after handling processionary-caterpillar nests, as described in an old dermatological case study. — Ben Crair, New Yorker, 31 July 2026 More importantly, the government apparently undercut its own sales pitch in court. — Lorraine D'alessio, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The solution, apparently, is to leave devs in these regions behind—no verification, but no enforcement, either. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for apparently

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aparenly, apparently "clearly, plainly," from apparaunt, apparent apparent + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of apparently was in 1566

Rhymes for apparently

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Browse Nearby Words

apparent horizon
apparently
apparent magnitude
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Cite this Entry

“Apparently.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apparently. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

apparently

adverb
ap·​par·​ent·​ly ə-ˈpar-ənt-lē How to pronounce apparently (audio)
-ˈper-
: it seems apparent : evidently
the door had apparently been forced open
apparently, we're supposed to wait here

More from Merriam-Webster on apparently

Nglish: Translation of apparently for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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