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infamy

noun

/ˈɪn fə mi/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of infamy

A state or quality of being well-known or remembered for a negative reason or an act that is widely regarded as shameful, disgraceful, or morally reprehensible.
"The corrupt official's infamy was widely known, but their power and influence shielded them from facing justice."

Detailed meaning of infamy

It is a noun that embodies a reputation or notoriety earned through an infamous action, event, or association. Infamy carries a sense of lasting notoriety, often accompanied by public condemnation and disapproval. It represents a stain on one's character or reputation, overshadowing any positive aspects. Infamy serves as a reminder of past transgressions or dishonorable deeds, making it difficult for an individual or institution to escape the weight of their ignoble history.

Example sentences containing infamy

1. The dictator's infamy spread far and wide, as his oppressive regime committed numerous human rights violations.
2. The scandal rocked the political world, leading to the politician's swift fall into infamy.
3. The serial killer's name became synonymous with infamy, haunting the memories of those affected by his gruesome crimes.
4. The company's CEO faced infamy after it was revealed that they had been embezzling funds for years.
5. The athlete's infamy grew when they were caught using performance-enhancing drugs, tarnishing their once-sterling reputation.
6. The heinous act committed by the terrorist group shocked the world and condemned them to a lifetime of infamy.

History and etymology of infamy

The noun 'infamy' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'infamia,' which is formed from 'in' (meaning 'not') and 'fama' (meaning 'fame' or 'reputation'). Thus, the etymology of 'infamy' essentially means 'not having a good reputation' or 'lack of fame.' Originally, it referred to a state or quality of being widely known or remembered for negative reasons, often associated with acts that were considered shameful, disgraceful, or morally reprehensible. Over time, the term has retained this fundamental meaning, making it a key concept in discussions of notoriety and dishonor in contemporary language.

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Further usage examples of infamy

1. The historical figure's infamy was cemented by their ruthless conquests and disregard for human life.
2. The artist's controversial masterpiece achieved infamy due to its provocative and unsettling subject matter.
3. The actor's career took a nosedive after their racist remarks brought them infamy and widespread condemnation.
4. The criminal's infamy as a notorious bank robber made them the subject of many books and movies.
5. The architect's infamy stemmed from their design flaws, which resulted in the collapse of a major bridge.
6. The dictator's infamy grew as his oppressive regime continued.
7. Her infamy as a notorious hacker spread throughout the internet.
8. The scandal brought infamy to the once-respected politician.
9. The heinous crime was destined to be remembered in infamy.
10. The artist's controversial masterpiece achieved infamy.
11. The athlete's doping scandal tarnished his career with infamy.
12. The pirate captain's cruelty earned him a legacy of infamy.
13. The criminal's audacious bank heist became an act of infamy.
14. The war criminal was marked by a legacy of infamy.
15. Infamy clung to the corrupt corporate executive.
16. The traitor's actions lived on in infamy.
17. The scandalous affair led to her infamy in the gossip columns.
18. The cult leader's charisma masked his infamy.
19. The corrupt CEO's actions were an epitome of infamy.
20. The serial killer's crimes left a trail of infamy.
21. The corrupt judge's decisions were shrouded in infamy.
22. The historical massacre is remembered for its infamy.
23. The con artist's schemes were legendary in their infamy.
24. The embezzler's theft was etched in infamy.
25. The dictator's atrocities ensured his infamy worldwide.