relatively

adverb

rel·​a·​tive·​ly ˈre-lə-tiv-lē How to pronounce relatively (audio)
Synonyms of relativelynext
: to a relative degree or extent : somewhat
a relatively small group of people
relatively cool weather
The house is relatively new.
see also:
relatively speaking

Synonyms of relatively

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Examples of relatively in a Sentence

these newly acquired in-laws felt relatively comfortable at our family reunion
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
For much of wristwatch history, case diameters remained relatively small by today’s standards—well under 40 mm. — Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 25 Aug. 2026 School board attorney William Isenhour has said the district handles the relatively rare situations on a case-by-case basis while attempting to comply with federal law. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 25 Aug. 2026 China media have been relatively restrained about this election result compared to past extreme rhetoric. — Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026 Greene, the three-time All-Star who adds underappreciated punch to the Tigers’ lineup, could return from a hamstring injury relatively soon. — Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for relatively

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of relatively was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing relatively

Browse Nearby Words

relative location
relatively
relatively prime
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Cite this Entry

“Relatively.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relatively. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

relatively

adverb
rel·​a·​tive·​ly
ˈrel-ət-iv-lē
: somewhat entry 2
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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