notorious

no·to·ri·ous

adj \nō-ˈtȯr-ē-əs, nə-\

Definition of NOTORIOUS

: generally known and talked of; especially : widely and unfavorably known

Examples of NOTORIOUS

1. The coach is notorious for his violent outbursts.
2. <a notorious mastermind of terrorist activities>

Origin of NOTORIOUS

Medieval Latin notorius, from Late Latin notorium information, indictment, from Latin noscere to come to know — more at know

First Known Use: 1534

Related to NOTORIOUS

Synonyms: discreditable, disgraceful, dishonorable, ignominious, infamous, louche, disreputable, opprobrious, shady, shameful, shoddy, shy, unrespectable

Antonyms: honorable, reputable, respectable

Related Words: bad, criminal, immoral, seamy, sordid, unethical, unsavory, wicked; base, contemptible, despicable, detestable, dirty, low, mean, miserable, vile, wretched; black, evil, iniquitous, nefarious, rotten, sinful, unrighteous, vicious, villainous, wrong; blamable, blameworthy, censurable, inglorious, reprehensible; corrupt, debased, debauched, degenerate, depraved, dissolute, gamy (or gamey), libertine, loose, perverted, reprobate

Near Antonyms: decent, ethical, good, honest, just, moral, noble, principled, righteous, upright, upstanding; esteemed, prestigious, reputed, respected; authorized, legal, licensed, permissible, permitted; approved, endorsed (also indorsed), sanctioned; clean, correct, decorous, exemplary, proper, seemly; blameless, commendable, creditable, guiltless

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Rhymes with NOTORIOUS

arboreous, censorious, inglorious, laborious, sartorius, uproarious, uxorious, vainglorious