Famous: Meaning, Examples, and Usage Guide

Meaning 1：well-known (famous)

famous 🔊

/ˈfeɪməs/

adj.

Known or recognized by a very large number of people.

Famous singer performing on stage with cheering crowd

well-known 🔊

➕

/ˌwelˈnoʊn/

adj.

Known or recognized by a very large number of people.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'fama' (report, reputation) + '-ous' (full of).

💡 Mnemonic

The 'fame' in 'famous' is like a flame that spreads quickly, making you well-known.

📖 Example

The child pointed at the picture of the Eiffel Tower and said she wanted to visit the famous landmark from her storybook. 🔊 The child pointed at the picture of the Eiffel Tower and said she wanted to visit the famous landmark from her storybook.

🔗 Collocations

famous for – well-known because of something

famous as – recognized in a particular role or capacity

world-famous – known all over the world

🔄 Synonyms

well-known (adj.) – Known by many people; famous.

renowned (adj.) – Celebrated and highly respected for something.

celebrated (adj.) – Widely acclaimed and famous.

🚫 Antonyms

unknown (adj.) – Not known or recognized.

obscure (adj.) – Not well known; hard to recognize.

infamous (adj.) – Famous for something bad.

🌱 Derivatives

fame (n.) – The state of being known by many people.

famously (adv.) – In a way that is famous or well-known.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'fama' meaning 'rumor, reputation,' via Old French 'fameus.' In modern media, 'famous' often relates to celebrity culture and public recognition.