Renown is widespread fame and respect earned through remarkable achievements or qualities. When someone achieves renown, they become known and admired by many people, often far beyond their own community or field.

A scientist might gain renown for discovering a cure for a disease. An athlete achieves renown by winning championships and breaking records. Authors like Roald Dahl achieved renown for writing beloved books that millions of children have read and treasured. The word suggests both recognition and respect earned through real accomplishment.

Someone with renown is often called renowned, meaning widely known and highly respected. A renowned chef might be famous for running popular restaurants and for creating innovative dishes that change how people think about food. A renowned teacher might be celebrated for inspiring thousands of students over decades.

Renown differs from simple celebrity or notoriety. A person might become a celebrity just by appearing on television, but renown suggests lasting recognition based on genuine achievement. When historians speak of figures of great renown, they mean people whose accomplishments were so significant that their names and achievements are still remembered and respected long after their lifetimes.