English Dictionary
Definition of “illustrious”
illustrious (ɪˈlʌstrɪəs
)
Definitions
adjective
- of great renown; famous and distinguished
- glorious or great ⇒
illustrious deeds
- obsolete shining
Alternative Forms
ilˈlustriously adverb ilˈlustriousness noun Word Origin
C16: from Latin illustris bright, distinguished, famous, from illustrāre to make light; see illustrate
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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famous,
great,
noted,
celebrated,
signal,
brilliant,
remarkable,
distinguished,
prominent,
glorious,
noble,
splendid,
notable,
renowned,
eminent,
famed,
exalted,
Usage examples
He was, in fact, Father General of the Society of Jesus, that most illustrious of all orders within the Catholic Church.
Higgins, Jack, Confessional (1985)The Californian joined NASA in 1996 after an illustrious career in the US Navy as a test pilot.
New Scientist (2003)It wasn't, and may yet prove to be a day of considerable significance in Hewitt's illustrious professional career.
The Australian (2005)Such was the emotion of the evening, the goal still ranks as one of the most memorable in Liverpool's illustrious European history.
Liverpool Daily Post and Echo (2003)He has no right, however, to wear that illustrious title, which is merged in the crown.
Eric Newby, A BOOK OF LANDS AND PEOPLES (2003)
