1 distinguished | Definition of distinguished
Logo
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

distinguished

adjective
dis·​tin·​guished | \ di-ˈstiÅ‹-(g)wisht How to pronounce distinguished (audio) \

Definition of distinguished

1 : marked by eminence, distinction (see distinction sense 4), or excellence distinguished leadership our distinguished guest
2 : befitting an eminent person a distinguished setting
Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about distinguished

Keep scrolling for more

Choose the Right Synonym for distinguished

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

Examples of distinguished in a Sentence

She is distinguished for her achievements in genetic research. heads turned as the well-dressed, distinguished couple strode through the hotel lobby

Recent Examples on the Web

 This crew is a good one judging by their distinguished postseason assignments. — Ross Dellenger, SI.com, "Behind the Scenes as SEC Refs Get a Unique Primer at Georgia Camp," 22 Aug. 2019 Johnson started her career with the department in 1981 as a corrections officer and led a distinguished career that spanned 38 years, Parker said. — Doha Madani, NBC News, "Escaped Tennessee inmate found after four-day manhunt," 11 Aug. 2019 Among the many distinguished basketball minds preceding him in that decidedly unglamorous job were eventual NBA head coaches Joe Prunty, Mike Budenholzer and James Borrego. — Mike Finger, ExpressNews.com, "Young Spurs and Team USA assistant a valued voice for Popovich," 7 Aug. 2019 Despite being widely celebrated as a painter and sculptor, Enwonwu was also a distinguished writer and art critic. — Ciku Kimeria, Quartz Africa, "How a Texas family discovered they owned a forgotten Ben Enwonwu portrait valued at $200,000," 27 July 2019 Blackwell started off by writing about the good things happening in the county schools, about distinguished alumni, and about his 32 years in the schools. — Trisha Powell Crain | Tcrain@al.com, al.com, "Rural charter school stokes religious fears, roils community in Alabama," 21 July 2019 One thing for certain: When Durant left Oklahoma City, after eight years of distinguished service, the fans didn’t forgive him — and for many, the grudge remains. — Bruce Jenkins, SFChronicle.com, "The Warriors fall, and the Western Conference rises from hibernation," 14 June 2019 Additionally, in collaboration with representatives from the District Inner Council, one school volunteer is recognized for their distinguished service to the students, school, and community of Chagrin Falls. — Charlene Paparizos, cleveland.com, "Chagrin Falls Schools Hosts RealizeU Recognition Breakfast: Community Voices," 10 May 2018 Sue Gordon is a great professional with a long and distinguished career. — Jennifer Jacobs, Fortune, "Deputy DNI Sue Gordon to Resign With Boss Dan Coats," 8 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'distinguished.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

See More

First Known Use of distinguished

1714, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for distinguished

see distinguish

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for distinguished

distinguished

adjective
How to pronounce distinguished (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of distinguished

: known by many people because of some quality or achievement
: making someone seem important and worth respect

See the full definition for distinguished in the English Language Learners Dictionary

distinguished

adjective
dis·​tin·​guished | \ di-ˈstiÅ‹-gwisht How to pronounce distinguished (audio) \

Kids Definition of distinguished

: widely known and admired a distinguished scientist

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on distinguished

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for distinguished

Spanish Central: Translation of distinguished

Nglish: Translation of distinguished for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of distinguished for Arabic Speakers

WORD OF THE DAY

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!