celebrity

word

/səˈɫɛbɹɪti/
suh-LEB-ri-dee
/səlˈɛbɹɪti/
suh-LEB-ri-tee

Definition

A celebrity is a famous person, especially someone well known in entertainment, sports, or the media. The word can also refer more generally to any person who receives a lot of public attention.

Usage & Nuances

Very common in pop culture and media. 'Celebrity' focuses on public fame, while 'famous person' is broader and more neutral. Common combinations include 'celebrity chef', 'celebrity gossip', and 'celebrity culture'. It can sound slightly negative if you are criticizing attention or superficial fame.

Example Sentences

That actor is a famous celebrity.

basic

She became a celebrity after the TV show.

basic

Many people want a photo with the celebrity.

basic

He acts like a celebrity, even though almost nobody knows him.

natural

Overnight, she went from a regular student to an internet celebrity.

natural

Being a celebrity sounds fun, but the lack of privacy would be hard.

natural