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noun C1 Advanced Uncommon

renown

rih-NOWN

Renown (noun) means Widespread fame or recognition, usually for something admirable. Example: “The chef gained renown for his innovative tasting menus.”

noun
1
Widespread fame or recognition, usually for something admirable.
"The chef gained renown for his innovative tasting menus."

How to use renown

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishBeing well known and respected, often for a skill or achievement.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
gain renown international renown a scientist of renown

Word forms

renowned past tense, renowns plural, renowns singular

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The chef gained _____ for his innovative tasting menus.

Etymology

From Old French renoun, related to re- + "noun" (in the older sense of "name" or "reputation").

Origin: Old French

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “renown” mean?

The word “renown” means widespread fame or recognition, usually for something admirable. In plain terms, being well known and respected, often for a skill or achievement.

How do you pronounce “renown”?

“Renown” is pronounced rih-NOWN (/ɹɪˈnaʊn/ in IPA).

How do you use “renown” in a sentence?

Here is “renown” used in a sentence: “The chef gained renown for his innovative tasting menus.”

What part of speech is “renown”?

“Renown” is a noun.

Where does the word “renown” come from?

The word “renown” comes from Old French. From Old French renoun, related to re- + "noun" (in the older sense of "name" or "reputation").

Is “renown” a common word?

“Renown” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

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