Synonyms for

Notorious

Verb / nəʊˈtɔ:ri:ʌs / Another word for notorious — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having a bad reputation, famous for doing something bad

Synonyms & similar words

illfamed infamous infamous disreputable shameful scandalous outrageous notable prominent well-known celebrated ill-famed ill-reputed reviled villainous flagrant egregious blatant open public brazen bold

Synonyms by register

Formal

infamous disreputable ill-famed disgraceful

Informal

bad-news shady unsavory wicked

Literary

ill-reputed black-hearted scandalous

Antonyms

famous celebrated renowned acclaimed distinguished illustrious venerated

Common collocations

  • notorious criminal
  • notorious gangster
  • notorious thief
  • notorious reputation
  • notorious for
  • notorious case
  • notorious figure

Word family

noun notoriety
adverb notoriously

Usage note

Notorious typically carries a negative connotation, implying fame for something bad or undesirable. While it can technically mean widely known, its common usage is for negative fame.

Example sentences

  1. The notorious bank robber was finally caught by the police.
  2. The notorious bully was always picking on the smaller kids.
  3. The notorious cheater was caught during the exam.
  4. The notorious liar was not trusted by anyone.
  5. The notorious dictator ruled the country with an iron fist.

Quotes

  • I have a notorious reputation for being a bit of a bad boy.
  • A notorious person is always more interesting than an honest and respectable one.
  • The notorious thing about doing something bad is that it often feels good.

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