well-nigh

adverb

ˈwel-ˈnī How to pronounce well-nigh (audio)
Definition of well-nighnext
as in almost
very close to but not completely it was well-nigh dark, but I could still see a little

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of well-nigh In my book, Peter Seidler was a model citizen, a well-nigh heroic one. — Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 21 Nov. 2023 The journey along the Gemini, which measured only 18 feet and five inches from bow to stern, proved to be well-nigh impossible. — Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 11 Nov. 2025 At Calder Gardens, art, architecture, and horticulture achieve a well-nigh perfect equilibrium. — Martin Filler, The New York Review of Books, 27 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for well-nigh
  1. almost
  2. practically
  3. nearly
  4. virtually
Adverb
  • Mediators of the deal, led by Pakistan and Qatar, will almost certainly now be hurriedly trying to get the agreement back on the rails.
    — Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 8 July 2026
  • In fact, the idea of splitting atoms for propulsion and power was being seriously considered almost as soon as the first atomic explosions were made public.
    — David Szondy July 07, New Atlas, 8 July 2026
Definition of almost
Adverb
  • And unlike conventional transmissions with a finite number of gears, an eCVT can move through a practically infinite number of gear ratios over a specified range based on your preferred cadence.
    — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 5 July 2026
  • Loose dresses are a lifesaver when humidity strikes, and this midi style was practically made for tropical temperatures.
    — Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026
Definition of practically
Adverb
  • The score might not suggest dominance, but Colombia controlled the game from the outset and held possession for nearly two-thirds of the match.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026
  • As night falls, the doors open and the nearly 5,000 attendees walk in.
    — Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
Definition of nearly
Adverb
  • The rows of chairs facing the stage offered virtually no shade, including reserved sections for VIPs and World War II veterans.
    — Kyla Guilfoil, NBC news, 5 July 2026
  • Drought covered virtually the entire Plains, destroying crops with deficient rainfall, high temperatures, high winds, insect infestations and dust storms.
    — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 4 July 2026
Definition of virtually

Browse Nearby Words

wellness
well-nigh
well-off
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Well-nigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/well-nigh. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on well-nigh

Nglish: Translation of well-nigh for Spanish Speakers

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