WordGarden.ioillustrious
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪlˈʌstrɪəs/
US
- /ˌɪˈləstriəs/
Meanings
Adjective
famous and highly respected for achievements or distinction
Beyond the definition
An illustrious person, family, career, or institution is widely admired for great achievements and a strong reputation. Think of a writer with an illustrious career or a university with an illustrious history. The word means more than simply being famous. It suggests honor, respect, and the kind of success people remember for a long time. It is usually used in a positive and fairly formal way.
The word illustrious describes someone or something that is highly famous, respected, and admired because of great achievements. It is not just about being well known. It carries a sense of honor and lasting importance. When people use this word, they usually mean that the person or group has earned deep respect over time.
You often see it in phrases like "an illustrious career," "an illustrious past," or "an illustrious family." In each case, the idea is similar: a history of notable success, achievement, or honor. A scientist, artist, leader, school, or even a city can be described this way if they have an outstanding reputation.
The word comes from the Latin illustrare, meaning "to light up" or "make clear." That old image still fits the modern meaning. An illustrious name seems to stand in the light, easy to notice because of excellence and achievement.
This word is usually positive and somewhat formal. It is more fitting for admired figures like Marie Curie or Nelson Mandela than for someone who is merely popular or briefly famous. In short, illustrious points to lasting respect, not just public attention.
Examples
- 1
Literary festival
The university invited several illustrious writers to speak at the festival.
- 2
Family background
She came from an illustrious family, but she wanted to build her own career.
- 3
Medical career
After an illustrious career in medicine, he retired at the age of seventy.
- 4
Civic history
The city is proud of its illustrious past, especially its role in the civil rights movement.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Academic comparison
As a young professor, he was often compared with his illustrious predecessors.
See also
Similar
- distinguished
- eminent
- renowned
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- illustrious career
- illustrious history
- illustrious predecessor
- illustrious name
Word family
- illustriously
- illustriousness
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- illustriousadjective