highly distinguished; renowned; famous

an illustrious leader.

glorious, as deeds or works

many illustrious achievements.

Obsolete . luminous; bright.

adjective

infamous , lowly , unimportant , unknown , unremarkable

adjective

big league * , brilliant , celeb , celebrated , distinguished , eminent , esteemed , exalted , famed , glorious , great , heavy , lofty , monster * , name * , noble , notable , noted , outstanding , remarkable , renowned , resplendent , signal , splendid , star , sublime , superstar , well-knownnotes:illustrative means clarifying by use of examples or serving to demonstrate , while illustrious means widely known and esteemed or having or conferring glory , famous , preeminent , prestigious , prominent , redoubtable , august , exemplary , formidable , honorable , honorific , immortal , magnific , magnificent , majestic , regal , striking , transcendent