Nominally

/ˈnɒm.ɪ.nə.li/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
In name only; officially but not in reality.
The company is nominally headed by a CEO, but the real decisions are made by the board.
In a manner that relates to names or terms.
The nominally defined roles in the project were often blurred in practice.
In a trivial or insignificant way.
The fee is nominally low, but it still represents a cost to the participants.
With respect to a name or title rather than substantial or real matters.
Nominally, the event was described as a festival, but only a handful of activities were planned.

Etymology

Late Latin 'nominalis', from 'nomen' meaning 'name'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

nominally in charge
Having the title or position without real authority.
nominal interest
The stated interest rate before taking inflation into account.
nominal value
The face value of something without considering market value.

Related Words

nominal
Relating to or being a name or names; slight or small.
nomenclature
A system of names used in a particular field.
nomen
A name, especially in Roman times.

Slang Meanings

Just for show; not genuine.
That committee is just nominally inclusive; they don't really take opinions.
Only a title with no real power.
She's nominally the leader, but the real decisions are made elsewhere.