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Notorious: meaning, definitions and examples

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notorious

 

[ nə(ʊ)ˈtɔːrɪəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

famous for something bad

Well known for some bad quality or deed. The word is often used to describe someone who is widely recognized for their negative actions or reputation. Synonyms include infamous, notorious is often used in a more serious or criminal context.

Synonyms

disreputable, infamous, scandalous, shameful

Examples of usage

  • He was a notorious criminal who had been in and out of jail his entire life.
  • The company became notorious for their unethical business practices.
  • The city's downtown area was notorious for its high crime rate.
  • The movie star became notorious for their wild behavior and scandals.
  • The politician was notorious for his corruption and lies.
Context #2 | Adjective

famous for something good

Well known for some good quality or deed. The word is often used to describe someone who is widely recognized for their positive actions or reputation. Notorious can also be used in a positive context to highlight fame for good reasons.

Synonyms

celebrated, famous, renowned, well-known

Examples of usage

  • She was a notorious artist, famous for her unique style and innovative work.
  • The author became notorious for their bestselling novels that captivated readers worldwide.
  • The scientist was notorious for their groundbreaking research in the field of medicine.
  • The musician was notorious for their incredible talent and sold-out concerts.
  • The chef became notorious for their award-winning restaurants and delicious cuisine.

Translations

Translations of the word "notorious" in other languages:

🇵🇹 notório

🇮🇳 कुख्यात

🇩🇪 berüchtigt

🇮🇩 terkenal

🇺🇦 сумнозвісний

🇵🇱 notoryczny

🇯🇵 悪名高い (akumei takai)

🇫🇷 notoire

🇪🇸 notorio

🇹🇷 kötü şöhretli

🇰🇷 악명 높은 (akmyeong nopeun)

🇸🇦 سيء السمعة

🇨🇿 notorický

🇸🇰 notorický

🇨🇳 臭名昭著的 (chòumíng zhāozhù de)

🇸🇮 zloglasen

🇮🇸 illræmdur

🇰🇿 атақты

🇬🇪 ცნობილი

🇦🇿 məşhur

🇲🇽 notorio

Word origin

The word 'notorious' originated from the Latin word 'notorius', which means 'well known'. Over time, the word evolved to take on a more negative connotation, becoming associated with being famous for something bad. In modern usage, 'notorious' is often used to describe individuals or groups with a reputation for criminal behavior, scandal, or infamy. Despite its negative undertones, 'notorious' can also be used in a positive context to highlight fame for good reasons, such as talent, achievements, or positive contributions to society.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,344 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.