— famously , adv. — famousness , n.
/fay"meuhs/ , adj.
1. having a widespread reputation, usually of a favorable nature; renowned; celebrated: a famous writer.
2. Informal. first-rate; excellent: The singer gave a famous performance.
3. notorious (used pejoratively).
[ 1350-1400; ME famosus. See FAME, -OUS ]
Syn. 1. famed, notable, illustrious. FAMOUS, CELEBRATED, EMINENT, DISTINGUISHED refer to someone or something widely and favorably known. FAMOUS is the general word: a famous lighthouse. CELEBRATED originally referred to something commemorated, but now usually refers to someone or something widely known for conspicuous merit, services, etc.: a celebrated writer. EMINENT implies high standing among one's contemporaries, esp. in one's own profession or craft: an eminent physician. DISTINGUISHED adds to EMINENT the idea of honors conferred more or less publicly: a distinguished scientist.
Ant. 1. unknown, obscure.