famous

The word “famous” means known widely by many people. In plain terms, well known, usually in a positive sense.

“Famous” is pronounced FAY-muhs (/ˈfeɪ.məs/ in IPA).

Here is “famous” used in a sentence: “She became famous after her debut novel topped the bestseller list.”

Words with a similar meaning to “famous” include bait, fabled, famed, famoused, iconic and irrecondite.

The opposite of “famous” — its antonyms — are normal, unfamous and unknown.

“Famous” is an adjective.

The word “famous” comes from Latin. From Latin famosus, from fama, "fame, reputation" — the same root as "fame.".

“Famous” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Both mean widely known, but the reason differs. 'Famous' is neutral or positive, describing someone celebrated for talent or achievement. 'Infamous' is negative, describing someone well known for something bad, like a crime or scandal. So a beloved actor is famous, while a notorious outlaw is infamous.

Usually yes, since it suggests being widely admired or celebrated, which most people take as a compliment. It can be neutral too, simply meaning many people know of someone or something. Only its opposite, 'infamous', carries a clearly negative sense of being known for the wrong reasons.

The two are close, but 'famous' suggests a wider and stronger reputation, often nationwide or global. 'Well-known' is more modest and can be local or within a particular field; a chef well known in one city may not be famous everywhere. Fame is essentially well-known taken to a larger scale.

The main opposites are 'unknown' and 'obscure', describing someone or something few people have heard of. 'Anonymous' fits when a person's name is deliberately hidden. Which one you choose depends on whether the lack of fame comes from being overlooked or from staying intentionally out of view.