illustrious
Illustrious (adjective) means Widely admired and respected, especially for great achievements. Example: “She had an illustrious career spanning four decades in medicine.”
How to use illustrious
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFamous and highly respected, usually because of a strong record of achievement.
Word forms
more illustrious comparative, most illustrious superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She had an _____ career spanning four decades in medicine.
Etymology
From Latin illustris, "bright, distinguished," from illustrare, "to brighten, make famous."
Rhymes for illustrious
See all rhymes for illustrious →Frequently asked questions
What does “illustrious” mean?
The word “illustrious” means widely admired and respected, especially for great achievements. In plain terms, famous and highly respected, usually because of a strong record of achievement.
How do you pronounce “illustrious”?
“Illustrious” is pronounced ih-LUHS-trih-uhs (/ɪˈlʌs.tɹi.əs/ in IPA).
How do you use “illustrious” in a sentence?
Here is “illustrious” used in a sentence: “She had an illustrious career spanning four decades in medicine.”
What part of speech is “illustrious”?
“Illustrious” is an adjective.
Where does the word “illustrious” come from?
The word “illustrious” comes from Latin. From Latin illustris, "bright, distinguished," from illustrare, "to brighten, make famous.".
Is “illustrious” a common word?
“Illustrious” is an uncommon word in modern English.