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Definition of notoriety

notoriety

/ˌnoʊ.təˈraɪ.ə.ti/
no · to · ri · e · ty
Adverb:notoriously
•
Plural:notorieties
•
Adjective:notorious
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notoriety Lexical Profile

notoriety Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state of being famous or widely known for some bad quality, scandal, or unfavorable deed.

Example

"The company gained unwanted notoriety after reports of its environmental violations became public."

2

A person or thing that is widely known, especially for something controversial or unfavorable.

Example

"By the end of the decade, the eccentric millionaire had become one of the city's greatest notorieties."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for notoriety
Antonyms
View all antonyms for notoriety

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'fame' or 'renown', which typically imply positive recognition, 'notoriety' almost always carries a negative connotation of being widely known for a bad deed, scandal, or unfavorable trait.

• Rhymes for notoriety

• Nearby Words

notionally
notions
notocactus
notoriety
notorious
notoriously
notoriousness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Middle French notoriété or Medieval Latin notorietas, from Latin notorius ('well-known'), which derives from noscere ('to come to know').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Notoriety. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/notoriety
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