famoso
“famoso” means “famous” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
famous, well-known
Also: renowned, notorious
📝 In Action
Este es un actor muy famoso.
A1This is a very famous actor.
La ciudad es famosa por sus vinos.
A2The city is famous for its wines.
Esa canción se hizo famosa en los años noventa.
A2That song became famous in the nineties.
celebrity, star
Also: public figure
📝 In Action
Los famosos tienen una vida muy ocupada.
B1Celebrities have very busy lives.
Mi hermana quiere ser una famosa de la televisión.
B1My sister wants to be a TV star (a famous person on TV).
Vimos a un famoso comiendo en el restaurante.
B2We saw a celebrity eating at the restaurant.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "famoso" in Spanish:
celebrity→famous→notorious→public figure→renowned→star→well-known→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: famoso
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'famoso'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word *famosus*, which means 'much talked about' or 'celebrated,' deriving from the root *fama* (fame/reputation).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'famoso' and 'conocido'?
'Famoso' means 'famous' or 'celebrated'—known by many people, often publicly. 'Conocido' means 'known' or 'familiar'—it can refer to a friend or someone recognized locally, not necessarily a global celebrity.
Can 'famoso' be used negatively, like 'notorious'?
Yes, 'famoso' can mean 'notorious' or 'infamous' if the context makes it clear the fame is based on bad deeds. For example, 'un famoso criminal' (a notorious criminal).