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noun C2 Proficient Uncommon

notoriety

noh-tuh-REYE-uh-tee

Notoriety (noun) means the state of being well known for something bad; infamy. Example: “The scandal brought the politician a great deal of notoriety.”

noun
1
The state of being well known for something bad; infamy.
"The scandal brought the politician a great deal of notoriety."

How to use notoriety

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishFame, but for something negative rather than good.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with plain "fame" — notoriety always implies a negative reputation.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
gain notoriety rise to notoriety

Word forms

notorieties plural

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Fill the gap

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The scandal brought the politician a great deal of _____.

Etymology

From Middle French notoriété, ultimately from Latin notus ("known").

Origin: Latin

ill fame

Rhymes for notoriety

See all rhymes for notoriety →

Frequently asked questions

What does “notoriety” mean?

The word “notoriety” means the state of being well known for something bad; infamy. In plain terms, fame, but for something negative rather than good.

How do you pronounce “notoriety”?

“Notoriety” is pronounced noh-tuh-REYE-uh-tee (/noʊ.tɚ.aɪ.ə.ti/ in IPA).

How do you use “notoriety” in a sentence?

Here is “notoriety” used in a sentence: “The scandal brought the politician a great deal of notoriety.”

What part of speech is “notoriety”?

“Notoriety” is a noun.

Where does the word “notoriety” come from?

The word “notoriety” comes from Latin. From Middle French notoriété, ultimately from Latin notus ("known").

Is “notoriety” a common word?

“Notoriety” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial