Vocabulary Spotlight
Celebrity
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A famous person, especially in entertainment, sports, or public life; the state of being well-known.
“The young actor quickly rose to celebrity status after the release of his hit film.”
Pronunciation
[suh-leb-ri-tee]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Famous person
Icon
Public figure
Notable
Antonyms
Nobody
Nonentity
Obscure person
Anonymous
Related Words
Renown
Popularity
Word Origin
“Celebrity” comes from the Latin “celebritas,” meaning “fame” or “celebration.” It evolved through Old French and Middle English to denote someone who is widely recognized and celebrated, particularly for their achievements or public presence.
Word Family
Noun: Celebrity – A famous person or the state of being well-known.
Adjective: Celebrated – Widely known and honored for a particular achievement.
Mnemonics
Think “Celebrity” as “CELEBrated Entity” — emphasizing a person celebrated by the public.
Remember “Celebrity” with “Celebrated LIBERty” — someone who enjoys public freedom and attention.
Industry-specific Usage
Entertainment
In entertainment, celebrities include actors, musicians, and media personalities who enjoy widespread fame.
Sports
Sports celebrities gain public recognition for their achievements, often serving as role models and influencers.
Social Media
With the rise of digital platforms, social media celebrities or “influencers” have gained popularity for their online presence.
In Context
“Celebrity” reflects widespread recognition, often accompanied by public adoration or scrutiny. While some strive for fame, others view celebrity status as a burden, as it can blur personal boundaries and attract intense media focus.