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notoriety
/noʊtəˈraɪəti/
infamy or widespread negative reputation
The criminal's notoriety grew after the sensational trial.
The criminal became widely known for their bad reputation.
formal
The state of being widely known for negative reasons, often due to criminal or scandalous behavior.
His notoriety as a hacker made him a target for law enforcement.
His fame as a hacker led to increased attention from authorities.
Notoriety often implies a negative reputation, though it can sometimes be neutral or even positive in certain contexts.
Collocations
gain notorietyto become widely known, often negativelyrise to notorietyto become famous, often for negative reasons
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Connotation
Be aware that 'notoriety' usually carries a negative tone, unlike 'fame,' which is more neutral or positive.
Gold Rule
Usage
Use 'notoriety' when referring to a person or thing widely known for negative reasons.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'notoriété,' from Latin 'notorietas,' from 'notorius' (well-known, notorious), from 'notus' (known) + '-orietas' (suffix denoting state or condition).
Usage Notes
While notoriety often has negative connotations, it can sometimes be used neutrally or even positively in certain contexts, such as in entertainment or activism.
Word Breakdown
notori
known, famous
root-ety
state or condition
suffixEnglish Dictionary