illustrious
UK: ɪˈlʌs.tri.əs | US: ɪˈlʌs.tri.əs
adj. 1. Highly distinguished; renowned for greatness or achievement.
adj. 2. Shining brightly; radiant (archaic).
The word "illustrious" traces back to the Latin illustris, meaning "bright, shining, or famous," derived from in- (intensifier) + luster (light). Over time, its meaning shifted metaphorically from physical brightness to figurative brilliance in reputation or achievement. The suffix -ious (from Latin -iosus) denotes "full of," solidifying its modern sense of "full of glory or renown."
The illustrious scientist received the Nobel Prize for her groundbreaking research.
His illustrious career in politics spanned four decades.
The castle was once home to an illustrious royal family.
She attended an illustrious university known for its academic excellence.
The museum displayed artifacts from illustrious civilizations of the past.