fame

[ feym ]

noun

1. widespread reputation, especially of a favorable character; renown; public eminence:

   to seek fame as an opera singer.

2. common estimation or opinion generally held of a person or thing; reputation.

verb (used with object)

, famed, fam·ing.

1. Archaic. to have or spread the renown of; to make famous.

fame

/ feɪm /

noun

1. the state of being widely known or recognized; renown; celebrity
2. archaic.
   rumour or public report

verb

1. tr; now usually passive to make known or famous; celebrate

   he was famed for his ruthlessness

Derived Forms

• famed, adjective

Other Words From

• fameless adjective
• outfame verb (used with object) outfamed outfaming
• self-fame noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of fame¹

1175–1225; Middle English < Anglo-French, Old French < Latin fāma talk, public opinion, repute, akin to fārī to speak

Word History and Origins

Origin of fame¹

C13: from Latin f ā ma report; related to fārī to say

Example Sentences

These stories also tend to be rehashed and retread because fame breeds fascination, of course, and name recognition helps when seeking the eyes and ears of an audience.

From New York Times

Payne was one of the most recognisable names in pop, after rising to fame on the X Factor in the 2010s.

From BBC

The 52-year-old Welshman, who found fame in insurance adverts, had been caught up in controversy with dance partner Katya Jones earlier in the series after what they called a "running joke" backfired.

From BBC

The Los Gatos, Calif.-based streaming giant said 60 million households watched the bout between Paul, a fighter who has established his fame through YouTube, and Tyson, the 58-year-old former heavyweight champion.

From Los Angeles Times

The 52-year-old Welshman, who found fame in insurance adverts, had earlier in the series been caught up in controversy with dance partner Katya Jones after what they called a "running joke" backfired.

From BBC

Related Words

• acclaim
• character
• dignity
• glory
• greatness
• honor
• immortality
• notoriety
• popularity
• prominence
• recognition
• renown
• reputation
• stardom