distinguished

[ dih-sting-gwisht ]

adjective

1. made conspicuous by excellence; noted; eminent; famous:

   a distinguished scholar.

   Synonyms: illustrious, renowned

2. having an air of distinction, dignity, or eminence:

   a distinguished old gentleman.

3. conspicuous; marked.

distinguished

/ dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt /

adjective

1. noble or dignified in appearance or behaviour
2. eminent; famous; celebrated

Other Words From

• dis·tinguished·ly adverb
• nondis·tinguished adjective
• well-dis·tinguished adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of distinguished¹

First recorded in 1700–10; distinguish + -ed ²

Synonym Study

See famous.

Example Sentences

He was born Feb. 9, 1985, in Leningrad and was a graduate of the distinguished Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, whose notable male alumni also include Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolf Nureyev.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump’s selections for his Cabinet are distinguished both by their personal loyalty to him as well as ferocity in pursuing his personal and political “enemies.”

From Salon

“Founded in 1999 on the heels of the Satanic ‘panic’ and growing steadily ever since, Infowars has distinguished itself as an invaluable tool for brainwashing and controlling the masses,” he wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Gaetz’s selection leaves no doubt about Trump’s resolve to avoid any such measure of integrity, much less an attorney general in the distinguished nonpartisan tradition of Edward Levi, Robert Jackson or Merrick Garland.

From Los Angeles Times

Actor Timothy West, one of Britain's most distinguished and versatile actors, has died at the age of 90, his family have announced.

From BBC

Related Words

• acclaimed
• brilliant
• dignified
• eminent
• esteemed
• famed
• great
• honored
• illustrious
• noble
• notable
• noted
• prominent
• remarkable
• renowned
• reputable
• venerable
• well-known