renown

Renown (r-noun), n.

Etymology: [F. renom. See Noun, and cf. Renown, v.]

1. The state of being much known and talked of; exalted reputation derived from the extensive praise of great achievements or accomplishments; fame; celebrity; -- always in a good sense. Nor envy we Thy great renown, nor grudge thy victory. Dryden.

2. Report of nobleness or exploits; praise. This famous duke of Milan, Of whom so often I have heard renown. Shak.

1 other Webster entry under this spelling

Renown (r-noun), v. t.

To make famous; to give renown to. [Obs.] For joi to hear me so renown his son. Chapman. The bard whom pilfered pastorals renown. Pope.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for renown; he lists it under fame.

Where he writes about it:

Fame in its best sense may be defined as the applause of numbers; renown, as such applause worthily won; we speak of the conqueror's fame, the patriot's renown. — from fame

Synonyms

fame celebrity credit distinction eminence glory honor laurels notoriety reputation repute

Antonyms

contempt contumely discredit disgrace dishonor disrepute humiliation ignominy infamy oblivion obscurity shame

etymology Webster’s online