What does noted mean?
Noted is an adjective with two closely related meanings. Most commonly, it describes someone or something that is well known or distinguished for a particular quality, achievement, or characteristic: a noted historian, a noted example, or a company noted for reliability. In this use, “noted for” is a common pattern. Less commonly, “noted” means marked or singled out for attention, as in “a noted exception” or “a noted feature of the design.” The word is standard in British and American English and has a formal, somewhat literary tone, especially when describing a person’s professional reputation. It can imply enduring recognition or significance rather than momentary attention. Compared with “famous,” it often focuses on a particular field or accomplishment; compared with “notorious,” it is normally neutral or positive.
Well known or distinguished for a particular quality, achievement, or characteristic; also, marked or specially mentioned.
"She is noted for her work on environmental conservation."
The pattern “noted for” is especially common in the sense of being well known for something. “Noted” is often more formal or literary than “known.”
The past tense and past participle of “note,” meaning to observe, record, or mention.
"The report noted a significant increase in demand."
As a verb form, “noted” is used in formal and written contexts, especially when reporting observations or recording information.
Being noted is the professional version of being famous: it suggests recognition for a specific achievement or quality, not merely general popularity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does noted come from?
“Noted” developed from the verb “note,” which comes through Old French from Latin notare, meaning “to mark” or “to make known.” Latin notare is related to notus, “known,” and ultimately to the root of words such as “notable,” “notify,” “notion,” and “annotate.” In English, “note” first referred to a brief written record or a mark, and “noted” developed both the sense of marked or mentioned and the sense of famous or distinguished.
Related word forms
How noted is actually used
When used to mean famous or distinguished, “noted” is usually followed by “for”: “noted for his generosity.” In the sense of marked or mentioned, it commonly occurs in phrases such as “noted exception” or “noted feature.” It is more formal than “known” in some contexts but is widely used in standard English.
Easily confused with noted
A person or thing that is notorious is famous for something bad or scandalous, whereas someone noted for an achievement is distinguished by it.