Il*lus"tri*ous (?), a.
[L. illustris, prob. for
illuxtris; fr. il- in
+ the root of lucidus bright: cf. F. illustre. See Lucid.]
1. Possessing luster or brightness; brilliant;
luminous; splendid.
Quench the light; thine eyes are guides illustrious.
Beau. & Fl. 2.
Characterized by greatness, nobleness,
etc.; eminent; conspicuous; distinguished.
Illustrious earls, renowened everywhere.
Drayton.
3. Conferring luster or honor; renowned; as, illustrious deeds or
titles.
Syn. -- Distinguished; famous;
remarkable; brilliant; conspicuous; noted; celebrated; signal;
renowened; eminent; exalted; noble; glorious. See Distinguished, Famous.
Hear it pronounced