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famous

adj.
US //ˈfeɪməs// UK //fˈeɪməs// fa·mous
  1. 1 well known (adj.)
    A1 Beginner

    known by many people in many places.

    widely known, recognised, or celebrated by the general public.

    Example

    The city is famous for its beautiful old bridge and delicious food.

    Example

    The scientist became famous overnight after her groundbreaking discovery was published in a major international journal.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate the reason for the fame.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners often confuse 'famous' with 'infamous'; remind them that 'infamous' means being known for something bad or shameful.
    Pitfall
    He is a famous for his music.
    He is famous for his music.

    Do not use 'a' before 'famous' when it is used alone after a verb like 'is' or 'became'.

  2. 2 excellent (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency British English Informal Archaic

    very good or excellent.

    used as an intensifier to mean excellent or first-rate.

    Example

    We had a famous dinner at that new Italian restaurant last night.

    Example

    The explorer was in famous spirits after receiving news that the funding for his next expedition had been approved.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is rarely heard in modern conversation and is mostly found in older British literature.
Origin

From Middle English famous, from Anglo-Norman famous, from Latin fāmōsus, equivalent to fame + -ous. Displaced native Old English hlīsful.

Word family

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