EM'INENCE EM'INENCY, noun [Latin eminentia, from eminens, emineo, to stand or show itself above; e and minor, to threaten, that is, to stand or push forward.] 1. Elevation, highth, in a literal sense; but usually, a rising ground; a hill of moderate elevation above the adjacent ground. The temple of honor ought to be seated on an eminence 2. Summit; highest part. 3. A part rising or projecting beyond the rest, or above the surface. We speak of eminences on any plain or smooth surface. 4. An elevated situation among men; a place or station above men in general, either in rank, office or celebrity. Merit may place a man on an eminence and make him conspicuous. eminence is always exposed to envy. 5. Exaltation; high rank; distinction; celebrity; fame; preferment; conspicuousness. Office, rank and great talents give eminence to men in society. Where men cannot arrive at eminence religion may make compensation, by teaching content. 6. Supreme degree. 7. Notice; distinction. 8. A title of honor given to cardinals and others.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI