cause célèbre

[kawz suh-leb-ruh, -leb, kohz sey-leb-r^uh] / ˈkɔz səˈlɛb rə, -ˈlɛb, koʊz seɪˈlɛb rə /

NOUN

controversial issue

Synonyms

WEAK

bone of contention celebrated case controversy debate grist for the gossip mill hot potato moot point political football scandal war of words

cause celebre

NOUN

celebrated case

Synonyms

STRONGEST

hot potato talk of the town uproar

WEAK

affair controversial case controversial issue controversy debate fuss grist for the gossip mill matter of the moment political football rumor scandal topic of the day war of words

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.

Sabate's situation became a cause celebre online, with people on social media posting #lettheminionskate to show support.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

The idea has become a cause celebre in certain circles.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2025

Among Goddard alumni are actor William H. Macy, playwright David Mamet, jailed activist and cause celebre Mumia Abu-Jamal, and some members of the rock band Phish.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 10, 2024

Recently, a few pets have become cause celebre when their X-ray images went viral.

From Washington Post • Feb. 24, 2023

Her quest for Everest had turned into a minor cause celebre in Japan.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer