distinguished

adjective

dis·​tin·​guished di-ˈstiŋ-(g)wisht 

1

: marked by eminence, distinction (see distinction sense 4), or excellence

distinguished leadership

our distinguished guest

2

: befitting an eminent person

a distinguished setting

Synonyms

• imposing
• dignified

Choose the Right Synonym for distinguished

famous, renowned, celebrated, noted, notorious, distinguished, eminent, illustrious mean known far and wide.

famous implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known.

a famous actress

renowned implies more glory and acclamation.

one of the most renowned figures in sports history

celebrated implies notice and attention especially in print.

the most celebrated beauty of her day

noted suggests well-deserved public attention.

the noted mystery writer

notorious frequently adds to famous an implication of questionableness or evil.

a notorious gangster

distinguished implies acknowledged excellence or superiority.

a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize

eminent implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character.

the country's most eminent writers

illustrious stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person.

illustrious war heroes

Examples of distinguished in a Sentence

She is distinguished for her achievements in genetic research.

heads turned as the well-dressed, distinguished couple strode through the hotel lobby

Recent Examples on the Web

Wimbledon insists on white clothing and strawberries with cream (distinguished rituals that trace back generations). —Rick Burton, Sportico.com, 6 Oct. 2025

Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis are a spectrum of diseases that affect patients of all ages, oftentimes with devastating or even fatal effects, said Daniel Kastner, a distinguished investigator at the National Institutes of Health. —Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2025

These distinguished attorneys have built reputations through consistent excellence in their practice, thoughtful leadership, and a clear commitment to their clients and communities. —Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 6 Oct. 2025

Paula Abdul is set to be honored with the Legacy Award for her distinguished contributions to the art and craft of choreography. —Andrew McGowan, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see distinguish

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing distinguished

• as distinguished from

Rhymes for distinguished

• undistinguished
• contradistinguished
• extinguished

Kids Definition

distinguished

adjective

dis·​tin·​guished

: widely known and admired for excellence

a distinguished scientist