Wikipedia:Definition of famous

The Merriam-Webster online dictionary says [1] (http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=famous):

FAMOUS, RENOWNED, CELEBRATED, NOTED, NOTORIOUS, DISTINGUISHED, EMINENT, ILLUSTRIOUS mean known far and wide. FAMOUS implies little more than the fact of being, sometimes briefly, widely and popularly known <a famous actress>. RENOWNED implies more glory and acclamation <one of the most renowned figures in sports history>. CELEBRATED implies notice and attention especially in print <the most celebrated beauty of her day>. NOTED suggests well- deserved public attention <the noted mystery writer>. NOTORIOUS frequently adds to FAMOUS an implication of questionableness or evil <a notorious gangster>. DISTINGUISHED implies acknowledged excellence or superiority <a distinguished scientist who won the Nobel Prize>. EMINENT implies even greater prominence for outstanding quality or character <the country's most eminent writers>. ILLUSTRIOUS stresses enduring honor and glory attached to a deed or person <illustrious heroes>.