well-known

adjective

ˈwel-ˈnōn How to pronounce well-known (audio)
Synonyms of well-knownnext
: fully or widely known

Synonyms of well-known

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Examples of well-known in a Sentence

an anchorwoman so well-known that she passes for a local celebrity
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Connecticut restaurant is well-known for its very wide array of chicken wing flavors. — Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 17 June 2026 While some seasoned travelers swear by it, others say it's become too well-known to work consistently. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 25 June 2026 And sure, other towns in the area, such as Monterey, with its famous aquarium, or fairy tale-like Carmel-by-the-Sea, may be more well-known. — Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026 Also known as Caramelo, candy in English, Chávez is arguably as well-known in Mexico as the members of the national team. — ABC News, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for well-known

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of well-known was in the 15th century

Rhymes for well-known

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Browse Nearby Words

well-knit
well-known
well-liked
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Cite this Entry

“Well-known.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/well-known. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

well-known

adjective
ˈwel-ˈnōn
: known by many people

More from Merriam-Webster on well-known

Nglish: Translation of well-known for Spanish Speakers

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