fame

fame · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The state of being widely known or recognized; celebrity status.

  2. 2.

    Widespread reputation, especially of a favorable character.

  3. 3.

    (archaic) Public estimation; reputation.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    claim to fame — the reason someone or something is famous
  • •
    hall of fame — a place honoring distinguished people in a field
  • •
    fifteen minutes of fame — brief period of celebrity
  • •
    rise to fame — become famous
  • •
    fame and fortune — celebrity and wealth

Related words

Antonyms: anonymity, obscurity
See also: celebrity, famous, renown, reputation
Synonyms: celebrity, notoriety, prominence, renown

Etymology

From Old French fame meaning "reputation, renown," from Latin fama meaning "talk, rumor, report, reputation," related to fari meaning "to speak."