illustrious

il·lus·tri·ous

adj \i-ˈləs-trē-əs\

Definition of ILLUSTRIOUS

1

: notably or brilliantly outstanding because of dignity or achievements or actions : eminent

2

archaic a : shining brightly with light b : clearly evident

— il·lus·tri·ous·ly adverb

— il·lus·tri·ous·ness noun

Examples of ILLUSTRIOUS

1. He has had an illustrious military career.
2. <an illustrious physicist who is a sure bet for a Nobel Prize>

Origin of ILLUSTRIOUS

Latin illustris, probably from illustrare

First Known Use: 1588

Related to ILLUSTRIOUS

Synonyms: astral, bright, distinguished, eminent, luminous, noble, notable, noteworthy, outstanding, preeminent, prestigious, redoubtable, signal, star, superior

Related Words: celebrated, exalted, famed, famous, glorious, honored, renowned, reputable; infamous, notorious; dominant, paramount, predominant

Near Antonyms: insignificant, minor, unimportant; average, inferior, mediocre; obscure, uncelebrated, unsung

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See Synonym Discussion at famous

Rhymes with ILLUSTRIOUS

industrious