Reputation (-tshn), n.
Etymology: [F. réputation, L. reputatio a reckoning, consideration. See Repute, v. t.]
1. The estimation in which one is held; character in public opinion; the character attributed to a person, thing, or action; repute. The best evidence of reputation is a man's whole life. Ames.
2. (Law)
The character imputed to a person in the community in which he lives. It is admissible in evidence when he puts his character in issue, or when such reputation is otherwise part of the issue of a case.
3. Specifically: Good reputation; favorable regard; public esteem; general credit; good name. I see my reputation is at stake. Shak. The security of his reputation or good name. Blackstone.
2 more senses
4. Account; value. [Obs.] Chaucer. [/Christ] made himself of no reputation. Phil. ii. 7.
Syn. -- Credit; repute; regard; estimation; esteem; honor; fame. See the Note under Character.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for reputation; he lists it under character, fame.
Where he writes about it:
Character is what one is; reputation, what he is thought to be; his record is the total of his known action or inaction. — from character
As a rule, a man's record will substantially express his character; his reputation may be higher or lower than his character or record will justify. — from character
Repute is a somewhat formal word, with the same general sense as reputation. — from character
Reputation and repute are more limited than fame, and may be either good or bad. — from fame