Notorious

Definition

Notorious refers to being famous or well-known, typically for some bad quality or deed.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /noʊˈtɔriəs/
• Respelling: noh-TOR-ee-uhs (with "noh" as in "no," "TOR" as in "torch," and "ee-uhs" as in "serious")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nəˈtɔːriəs/
• Respelling: nuh-TAW-ree-uhs (with "nuh" as a reduced vowel sound like in "sofa," "TAW" as in "tall," and "ree-uhs" as in "serious")

In both dialects, "notorious" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "TOR"/"TAW." The pronunciation reflects the emphasis on this syllable, differentiating between the American and British pronunciation in the vowel sounds of the first and second syllables.

Etymology

The term "notorious" has its origins in the late Middle English word "notorius" and is derived from the Latin "notorius", meaning "well-known", from "notus", which translates to "known".

Derivatives

• Notoriously
• Notoriousness
• Notoriety
• Non-notorious
• Notorial

Synonyms

• Infamous
• Scandalous
• Dishonorable

Antonyms

• Unknown
• Honorable
• Respectable

Usage

"Notorious" is often used to describe someone or something that has gained widespread attention, especially for negative reasons.

• The gangster was notorious for his many crimes in the city.
• The film director is notorious for going over budget on his projects.

Related Terms

• Repute
• Fame
• Reputation

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Well-known for a Negative Reason: Widely and unfavorably known or talked about by a large number of people, especially because of a particular negative characteristic or trait.‍
• Example: The politician became notorious for his controversial speeches.

• Publicly or Generally Recognized: Being widely known or recognized by people in general, irrespective of the reason.‍
• Example: The artist was notorious in her own time, with many fans and critics alike..