Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Infamous
Well known for a negative reason; having a bad reputation.
adjective💡
Imagine This
Imagine a villain whose name is whispered in every town because of ruthless deeds; people shudder when they hear it and cross the street to avoid him.
🔊
Sounds Like
in-FAYM-uhs
👀
Looks Like
Looks like 'famous' with an in- prefix indicating the opposite meaning.
📝
Remember This
Infamous is the opposite of famous in a positive sense. It describes notoriety or disreputable reputation, not mere popularity.
📚
Other Forms
infamynoun
infamouslyadverb
infamousnessnoun
🔗
Connect With
notorious, disreputable, stigma, ill-repute
📌
Note
Usually followed by 'for' + a negative attribute or action (infamous for corruption, infamously deceitful). Do not confuse with 'famous' or the noun 'infamy'.
🧠
Study Deeper
Examples
- The town's infamous outlaw robbed banks across the countryside.
- The corporation became infamous for its environmental violations.
Synonyms
notoriousdisreputableill-famedignominiousreprehensible
Antonyms
renownedillustriousfamous for positive reasons
Etymology
From Latin infāmōsus 'of ill repute', formed from in- 'not' + famōsus 'famous', from fāma 'fame, report'.
Mnemonic
IN-FAME-ous: Not famous for good reasons; remember with the phrase 'not fame for good deeds' to cue negative reputation.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.