: as may be argued or shown by argument
an arguably effective strategy
—used to say that a statement is very possibly true even if it is not certainly true
He was arguably the greatest writer of his era.

Examples of arguably in a Sentence

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.
Today, the Dream arguably represent the shortest and most direct bridge between the WNBA’s social justice roots and its present era of mainstream popularity and dynamic athleticism. — Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Rahm won the league's individual title in each of the last three years, making his defection from the league arguably its biggest hit. — Ryan Morik Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Though there are many ways to rig them, wacky style is the most common — and arguably the deadliest. — Joe Cermele, Outdoor Life, 15 Oct. 2026 Almost one year ago, paleontologists finally settled a longstanding debate about Tyrannosaurus rex, arguably Earth’s most famous dinosaur. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for arguably

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of arguably was in 1851

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Cite this Entry

“Arguably.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arguably. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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