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.
"There sleep the mighty dead as in life they slept, warriors and princes of high renown."
— James Joyce, [Episode 12: The Cyclops] (1922)
"The chef gained renown for his innovative tasting menus."
How to use renown
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- renowns
- Third person singular
- renowns
- Past tense
- renowned
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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").
Synonyms
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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.
