Definitions

distinguished

[dih-sting-gwisht] / dɪˈstɪŋ gwɪʃt /

ADJECTIVE

famous, outstanding

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acclaimed brilliant dignified eminent esteemed famed great honored illustrious noble notable noted prominent remarkable renowned reputable venerable well-known

STRONG

arresting celebrated high-profile imposing marked name shining signal striking

WEAK

aristocratic big-name conspicuous distingué especial extraordinary foremost glorious highly regarded memorable nonpareil noteworthy peerless royal salient singular special stately superior talked of unforgettable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

infamous insignificant lowly normal obscure ordinary stupid typical undignified unimportant unknown unremarkable unrespected

STRONG

unimpressive

WEAK

common standard unextraordinary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That same year, he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Lewis & Clark College.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

The project began during Cinquemani's senior year in a course called "Hydrothermal Vents," taught by Lutz, a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Distinguished by different hairdos and contrasting body language, Douglas, who can will himself to appear sedate, and James, who’s in a continual manic spiral, have more in common than either would care to admit.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 28, 2026

Serving and former service personnel had become suspicious of the supposed Rear Admiral - the third highest rank in the Royal Navy - when they saw his sword and the rare Distinguished Service Order medal.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

Distinguished thinkers from other nations were frequent guests.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

Vocabulary lists containing distinguished

"The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant

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And Then There Were None

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"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 14–18

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