Definition of famousnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word famous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of famous are celebrated, distinguished, eminent, illustrious, noted, notorious, and renowned. While all these words mean "known far and wide," famous implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known.

a famous actress

When is it sensible to use celebrated instead of famous?

While in some cases nearly identical to famous, celebrated implies notice and attention especially in print.

the most celebrated beauty of her day

When could distinguished be used to replace famous?

The words distinguished and famous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, distinguished implies acknowledged excellence or superiority.

a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize

Where would eminent be a reasonable alternative to famous?

The synonyms eminent and famous are sometimes interchangeable, but eminent implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character.

the country's most eminent writers

When might illustrious be a better fit than famous?

While the synonyms illustrious and famous are close in meaning, illustrious stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person.

illustrious war heroes

When would noted be a good substitute for famous?

Although the words noted and famous have much in common, noted suggests well-deserved public attention.

the noted mystery writer

How do notorious and famous relate to one another?

Notorious frequently adds to famous an implication of questionableness or evil.

a notorious gangster

When is renowned a more appropriate choice than famous?

In some situations, the words renowned and famous are roughly equivalent. However, renowned implies more glory and acclamation.

one of the most renowned figures in sports history

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 famous Those who will tell him the famous Patterson-Gimlin film isn't real. Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were famous child stars in the '90s. Britt Hayes, Entertainment Weekly, 30 June 2026 Eliza embraced the famous Wimbledon whites in a button-up vest with long pants, while Amelia wore a the same vest and shorts in a muted navy. Meg Walters, InStyle, 30 June 2026 With menus inspired by the seasons, rotating dishes, bold flavors and comforting classics adorn the menu, like their famous crispy fried chicken and their shrimp and grits. Carinne Geil Botta, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for famous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for famous
Adjective
  • The billionaire pop titan and the NFL star, both 36, kicked off their wedding festivities Thursday afternoon with a rehearsal dinner at the famed sports arena.
    Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026
  • Fast forward to 1953 and the Delage was apparently involved in a fender-bender and dispatched to famed coachbuilder Saoutchik for repairs.
    Howard Walker, Robb Report, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • While San Francisco’s bullpen is struggling, Rogers is in the midst of another excellent season after signing a three-year, $37 million deal to join the defending American League champions.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 7 July 2026
  • Guests can borrow, for no charge, one of four Mate e-bikes for spins around the park or beyond, say to Tanimachi nearby for local neighborhood vibes, including charming izakayas, gyoza shops, and excellent, one-woman restaurants such as Tachiaoi.
    Kathryn Romeyn, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Côtes de Provence is one of the world's most celebrated wine regions, producing around 90% of its output in rosé.
    Karli Poliziani, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • Jackson once again claims more R&B hits in America than any other artist, and one of his most celebrated singles even manages to hit a new peak decades after its release.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • The animals, the cool weather and the wonderful people of this region made for a memorable trip.
    Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
  • Bat boxes are a wonderful addition to your yard for attracting bats and giving them a safe place to live.
    The Spruce, The Spruce, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • One prominent Cherokee named Katteuha co-wrote a letter to Benjamin Franklin during the Constitutional Convention in 1787, urging him to push for peace between the Native people and settlers.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • The effect of protostar outflows on their environment can be seen in the JWST image via the prominent blue ridges.
    Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Their French 75, which is made with cognac, lemon and muscadet, is a perfect example thanks to a beautiful balance of elegance and ingenuity.
    Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
  • At the rear of the second floor is the primary suite, which has a large walk-in closet and another beautiful bathroom featuring a six-foot soaking tub with a custom glass surround.
    James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • Sutton said The Wounded Blue first purchased the officer a wheelchair before connecting him with a renowned spinal surgeon through the same anonymous donor.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026
  • Born on a farm in Maine, and instructed in local flora by an aunt, Butler availed herself of science classes at the University of Minnesota and went on to become a renowned phycologist.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • William's sixth-great-grandfather was born in Coventry in 1740 and enlisted as a private in the Connecticut militia.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • Leave some messiness in your garden and leave the leaves, as decaying leaves are great habitat for fireflies.
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Famous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/famous. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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