# distinguished

/dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt/ (US) · /dɪstˈɪŋɡwɪʃt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/distinguished
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. successful and respected

adjective · CEFR B2

famous and respected because of great work or a high position.

For teachers: celebrated or eminent due to significant achievements, professional rank, or contributions to a field.

- The university invited a distinguished professor to speak at the graduation ceremony.
- After a distinguished career in international law, she was appointed to the highest court in the country.

### 2. dignified appearance

adjective · CEFR B2

looking important, elegant, and serious, often in a way that suggests age and experience.

For teachers: possessing a dignified or noble appearance, often associated with maturity or refined style.

- With his grey hair and tailored suit, he looked very distinguished.
- The actor's distinguished features made him the perfect choice to play the role of the elder statesman.

## Examples

- He is a distinguished professor at the university.
- The ceremony honored several distinguished guests who had spent decades working in international diplomacy.
- Her distinguished career in medical research culminated in a prestigious award that recognized her lifelong commitment to public health and scientific integrity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.