# infamy

/ˈɪnfəmi/ (US) · /ˈɪnfəmi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/infamy
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a very bad reputation that people know and talk about. It is the opposite of fame, but it is much more negative.

For teachers: a state of being widely known for something bad or criminal. Often used to describe a reputation that is infamous for its negative impact on a person or place.

## Examples

- The criminal's name became a symbol of infamy.
- The city's reputation for corruption led to its infamy across the country.
- The scandal that led to the politician's resignation ensured his infamy in the annals of modern history, overshadowing any previous achievements he had made.

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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.