famous, renowned, celebrated, noted, notorious, distinguished, eminent, illustrious mean known far and wide. famous implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known.
// a famous actress renowned implies more glory and acclamation.
// one of the most renowned figures in sports history celebrated implies notice and attention especially in print.
// the most celebrated beauty of her day noted suggests well-deserved public attention.
// the noted mystery writer notorious frequently adds to famous an implication of questionableness or evil.
// a notorious gangster distinguished implies acknowledged excellence or superiority.
// a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize eminent implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character.
// the country's most eminent writers illustrious stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person.
//illustrious war heroes