1
2

Synonym Chooser

How is the word notorious different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of notorious are celebrated, distinguished, eminent, famous, illustrious, noted, and renowned. While all these words mean "known far and wide," notorious frequently adds to famous an implication of questionableness or evil.

a notorious gangster

When is celebrated a more appropriate choice than notorious?

The meanings of celebrated and notorious largely overlap; however, celebrated implies notice and attention especially in print.

the most celebrated beauty of her day

When would distinguished be a good substitute for notorious?

The words distinguished and notorious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, distinguished implies acknowledged excellence or superiority.

a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize

In what contexts can eminent take the place of notorious?

In some situations, the words eminent and notorious are roughly equivalent. However, eminent implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character.

the country's most eminent writers

When could famous be used to replace notorious?

Although the words famous and notorious have much in common, famous implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known.

a famous actress

When can illustrious be used instead of notorious?

The synonyms illustrious and notorious are sometimes interchangeable, but illustrious stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person.

illustrious war heroes

When is it sensible to use noted instead of notorious?

While the synonyms noted and notorious are close in meaning, noted suggests well-deserved public attention.

the noted mystery writer

When might renowned be a better fit than notorious?

The words renowned and notorious can be used in similar contexts, but renowned implies more glory and acclamation.

one of the most renowned figures in sports history

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of notorious The founder and head of the notorious Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania, Brig. Alfredo Sosa, The Christian Science Monitor, 13 Mar. 2025 The most notorious incident involved Bret Hart during WCW Starrcade 1999, where a mistimed superkick from Goldberg resulted in a severe concussion that ultimately contributed to Hart's premature retirement. Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025 The show is about a mission to bring down notorious Nazi Dr. Josef Mengele. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 28 Mar. 2025 Tren de Aragua, the gang at the center of these accusations, was formed in the notorious Tocorón prison in Venezuela’s Aragua state and has since spread across the region, earning a reputation for ruthless violence. Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for notorious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for notorious
Adjective
  • In Henry’s latest, out April 22, two novelists compete for the chance to write a once-in-a-lifetime biography of a infamous heiress.
    Anna Moeslein, Glamour, 17 Apr. 2025
  • After being dealt from the Dodgers to the Boston Red Sox in 2020 as part of the infamous Mookie Betts trade, then traded again — this time by Boston to its archrival New York Yankees — the 28-year-old finally got his first chance to cash in via free agency after last season.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • If the book falters, the production numbers – some based on famous Marilyn images and tropes, like the Seven Year Itch‘s subway grate scene, and the Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend bit – are suitably flashy.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The film features a beloved, A-list British cast, a famous Australian villain and a cameo by the author of the bestselling book series, which debuted in 1958.
    Lesley O'Toole, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • It’s implied that before going into construction, Levon had brought his military training into civilian life in some shady (though likely heroic) capacity or another — maybe even kidnap recovery.
    Peter Debruge, Variety, 26 Mar. 2025
  • During a recent conversation with legendary radio host Big Boy, the 26-year-old spoke about her haters and shady tension that led to this notion.
    Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 25 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Set right on the thoroughfare that runs through its famed namesake area, you are surrounded by a wealth of shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
    Christina Liao, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025
  • The issue comes up in group chats, on web forums, and even, occasionally, in couples-therapy sessions that the famed psychologist Julie Gottman facilitates.
    Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The criminal search warrant centered on Old McDonald's Farm, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement to NPR.
    Bill Chappell, NPR, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Jorge Saldana-Gonzalez, 44, was arrested on a murder charge following the Saturday, April 5, shooting at Sandra’s Bar, on Alamo’s east side, according to a criminal complaint filed in Hidalgo County.
    Mitchell Willetts, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • On Monday, April 7, Washington, 70, and Goldberg, 69, appeared at an event at the James Earl Jones Theatre — formerly known as the Cort Theatre — in Manhattan to pay tribute to Jones, the celebrated stage and screen actor who died at 93 in September 2024.
    Tommy McArdle, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Set on a rhodium lapel pin, this piece merges industrial shine with organic form, a subtle nod to the celebrated flower of the Kentucky Derby.
    Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Among them was the explanation that Wuhan – the Chinese city where the virus first began spreading – is home to a prominent virology lab.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Greer served as chief of staff to then-trade representative Robert Lighthizer during the first Trump administration, giving him a front row seat and a prominent role in negotiations with China on tariffs and an eventual trade agreement.
    Brett Samuels, The Hill, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Manuel Olivo Ortiz, whose son attended the concert but did not return home, was among those anxiously waiting outside the club known for its traditional Monday parties where renowned national and international artists perform.
    Danica Coto, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
  • On Tuesday, April 8, past winners of the renowned golf tournament will gather for the Champions Dinner at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia.
    Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Notorious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/notorious. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on notorious

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!