Celebrated

adj. joyful, capable formal

What it means

Known widely and praised for notable work, character, or achievement.

Reach for it when recognizing someone or something whose reputation rests on sustained acclaim

The celebrated architect returned to teach at the small school where she began.

Words to choose between 7

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
everyday
warm
professional
formal
literary
  • everyday

    famous

    Fits when simple widespread recognition is what matters

    Careful Fame can come from notoriety and does not itself signal admiration.

  • warm

    beloved

    Fits when affection is more important than prestige

    Careful Beloved does not promise professional recognition or exceptional accomplishment.

  • professional

    acclaimed

    Fits when critics or informed audiences have expressed strong approval

    Careful Acclaimed points to reception, not necessarily lasting public familiarity.

  • professional

    distinguished

    Fits when achievement and dignity set the person apart

    Careful This is too status-heavy when you mean popular affection.

  • formal

    renowned

    Fits when the reputation is broad and firmly established

    Careful Renowned is oversized for praise limited to one small circle.

  • literary

    illustrious

    Fits when a long, impressive record deserves elevated language

    Careful The grandeur can sound inflated for a newly noticed success.

  • literary

    lionized

    Fits when public admiration has become conspicuous or excessive

    Careful Lionized carries a hint of overpraise that celebrated need not have.

Opposites 3

  • unknown
  • unheralded
  • disparaged

Common phrases 3

  • celebrated author

    The celebrated author answered every young reader's question.

  • widely celebrated

    The restoration is widely celebrated for preserving the original stonework.

  • celebrated for

    She is celebrated for turning neglected lots into public gardens.

Word family 1

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated