Celebrity

Definition

Celebrity is a noun. It refers to a famous person, especially one in entertainment, media, or sports. It also refers to the state of being well-known or having fame.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /səˈlɛbrɪti/
• Respelling: suh-LEB-ri-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪˈlɛbrɪti/
• Respelling: si-LEB-ri-tee

The pronunciation of "celebrity" varies slightly between American and British English, particularly in the initial vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "celebrity" originates from the Latin "celebritas," meaning "fame" or "celebration." It entered Middle English in the 14th century with meanings associated with fame and festivity, eventually evolving to signify a famous person.

Derivatives

• Celebrated (adjective)
• Celebration (noun)
• Celebrate (verb)
• Celebratory (adjective)
• Celebrityhood (noun)

Synonyms

• Star
• Icon
• Public figure

Antonyms

• Nobody
• Unknown
• Obscurity

Usage

The term "celebrity" is commonly used to refer to well-known individuals in society, as in "The actor became a celebrity after his role in the film." It can also refer to the general state of fame, as in "She rose to celebrity status after her book became a bestseller."

Related Terms

• Fame: The state of being known by many people.
• Notoriety: The state of being famous, often for a negative reason.
• Popularity: The state of being liked or admired by many people.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A famous person, especially in entertainment, media, or sports: Refers to an individual widely recognized by the public.
  • Example: "The singer became an international celebrity after her hit single."
• The state of being well-known or having fame: Refers to the condition of widespread recognition or renown.
  • Example: "The author’s book brought her to celebrity status overnight."