illustrious

/i'lʌstreiəs/
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illustrious

The judge received an illustrious award for her lifetime of service.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Widely known and highly respected for outstanding achievements: Describes someone or something that has gained great fame and honor, typically through remarkable accomplishments or qualities.
    • Glorious, distinguished: Conveys a sense of brilliance, splendor, or eminent distinction.
Usage and Examples
  • Describing a person:
    • She comes from an illustrious family of scholars and diplomats.
    • The award was presented by an illustrious panel of experts from around the world.
  • Describing an achievement or period:
    • The team celebrated its illustrious history with a special ceremony.
    • His illustrious career in medicine spanned over four decades.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
  • "Illustrious" vs. "Famous": While both mean well-known, "illustrious" strongly implies that the fame is deserved due to excellence, virtue, or significant achievement, and carries a more formal and respectful tone.
    • He was not merely a famous actor, but an illustrious artist whose work defined a generation.
  • Often used in formal or literary contexts to add weight and honor.
    • The university's most illustrious alumnus returned to deliver the commencement speech.
Variants and Related Words
  • Illustriously (adverb): In an illustrious manner.
    • She served her country illustriously for many years.
  • Illustriousness (noun): The quality or state of being illustrious.
    • The illustriousness of his deeds was recognized by all.
Synonyms
  • Eminent: High in station, rank, or repute; prominent.
  • Renowned: Known or talked about by many people; famous.
  • Distinguished: Very successful, authoritative, and commanding great respect.
  • Celebrated: Greatly admired; renowned.
  • Glorious: Having, worthy of, or bringing fame or admiration.
Antonyms
  • Unknown: Not known or familiar.
  • Obscure: Not discovered or known about; uncertain.
  • Inglorious: Causing shame or a loss of honor.
Idiomatic Expressions and Phrases
  • An illustrious predecessor: A highly respected person who held a position before the current holder.
    • The new director had the difficult task of following an illustrious predecessor.
  • Of illustrious lineage: Coming from a famous and highly respected family line.
    • The poet was of illustrious lineage, descending from a long line of statesmen.
illustrious

The judge received an illustrious award for her lifetime of service.

Adjective
  1. having or conferring glory
    • an illustrious achievement
  2. widely known and esteemed
    • a famous actor
    • a celebrated musician
    • a famed scientist
    • an illustrious judge
    • a notable historian
    • a renowned painter