First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
famous
adjective fa·mous \ˈfā-məs\
: known or recognized by very many people : having fame
Full Definition of FAMOUS
1
a : widely known b : honored for achievement
See famous defined for English-language learners
See famous defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of FAMOUS
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin famosus, from fama fame
Related to FAMOUS
Synonym Discussion of FAMOUS
famous, renowned, celebrated, noted, notorious, distinguished, eminent, illustrious mean known far and wide. famous implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known <a famous actress>. renowned implies more glory and acclamation <one of the most renowned figures in sports history>. celebrated implies notice and attention especially in print <the most celebrated beauty of her day>. noted suggests well-deserved public attention <the noted mystery writer>. notorious frequently adds to famous an implication of questionableness or evil <a notorious gangster>. distinguished implies acknowledged excellence or superiority <a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize>. eminent implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character <the country's most eminent writers>. illustrious stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person <illustrious war heroes>.
FAMOUSNESS Defined for Kids
famous
adjective fa·mous \ˈfā-məs\
Definition of FAMOUS for Kids
: very well-known
Learn More About FAMOUS
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up famous? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).