mid-15c., "projecting, jutting out," from Latin prominentem (nominative prominens) "prominent," present participle of prominere "jut or stand out, be prominent, overhang," from pro- "before, forward" (see pro-) + minere "to project," from minae "projections, threats" (see menace, n.). Meaning "conspicuous" is from 1759; that of "notable, leading" is from 1849. Related: Prominently.