French word

illustre

Pronunciation

IPA/ilystʁ/

Meaning

  • adjectivefamous

Example

Elle est une illustre artiste.

She is a famous artist.

Illustration for illustre (famous)

More examples

Sa carrière est jalonnée de succès illustres.

His career is studded with illustrious successes.

Core concept

A person or achievement standing brightly in public view because of recognized qualities, actions, or reputation.

Similar words

célèbre: Well known by a large number of people.
connu: Familiar to many people through its name or existence.
réputé: Widely regarded as having a particular reputation.

Definition in French

Qui est connu et respecté pour ses qualités, ses actions ou sa réputation.

Word origin

French illustre comes from Latin illustris, meaning bright, distinguished, or renowned, and is related to illustrare, to illuminate or make clear.

Usage tips

  • Illustre is formal and often literary, while célèbre or connu is usually more natural in everyday French.

Other meanings

  • illustriousadjective

Opposites

  • méconnuunrecognizedadjective

Related words

Word lists with this word