# fame

/ˈfeɪm/ (US) · /fˈeɪm/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. being well-known

noun · CEFR B1

the state of being famous or known by many people.

For teachers: the condition of being known or talked about by many people, especially on account of notable achievements.

- The young actor achieved worldwide fame after his first movie became a hit.
- Despite her sudden rise to international fame, the scientist remained dedicated to her laboratory work and avoided the public spotlight.

### 2. reputation

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

the opinion that people have about someone or something.

For teachers: the character or reputation attributed to a person or thing by the public.

- The knight's fame for bravery spread throughout the kingdom.
- His fame as a fair and just ruler preceded him, ensuring a warm welcome from the local governors.

### 3. to make famous

verb · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Literary

to make someone or something famous.

For teachers: to confer fame upon someone or to make something widely known. Transitive — requires a direct object.

- The poet's verses served to fame the heroes of the revolution.
- The explorer was famed throughout the continent for his daring expeditions into the uncharted interior.

## Examples

- She achieved international fame after her first movie.
- The young athlete struggled to handle the sudden fame that followed his record-breaking performance at the games.
- While many pursue fame for the perceived benefits of wealth and status, the constant lack of privacy often leads to a profound sense of isolation.

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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.