Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Known widely and usually unfavorably: Describes a person, place, or thing that is famous or well-known, but typically for bad reasons, negative qualities, or scandalous behavior.

Usage

The word "notorious" is used to indicate widespread public recognition, almost always with a negative or disapproving connotation. It emphasizes that the fame is due to something considered bad, shocking, or undesirable.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The area was notorious for its high crime rate.
  • He became a notorious figure after the scandal.
  • The company is notorious for its poor treatment of employees.

Advanced Usage

• "notorious for (something)": This is the most common construction, specifying the reason for the bad reputation.
  • The restaurant is notorious for its slow service.
• Used in a historical or factual context, it can describe something widely acknowledged as true, though often still negative.
  • It is a notorious fact that the system is flawed.

Variants and Related Words

• Notoriety (noun): The state of being famous for something bad.
  • He gained notoriety for his outrageous statements.

Synonyms

• Infamous: Very similar in meaning, often used interchangeably with "notorious."
• Disreputable: Lacking respectability, but may not imply the same level of widespread fame.
• Scandalous: Causing public outrage or shock.

Antonyms

• Renowned: Known and admired by many people.
• Esteemed: Held in high respect.
• Reputable: Having a good reputation.

Idioms and Phrases

• A notorious fact: Something that is widely known and accepted to be true, often an unwelcome truth.
  • It is a notorious fact that traffic is terrible during rush hour.

Adjective

1. known widely and usually unfavorably;
   • a notorious gangster
   • the tenderloin district was notorious for vice
   • the infamous Benedict Arnold