known

adjective

ˈnōn How to pronounce known (audio)
Synonyms of knownnext
: generally recognized
a known authority on art

Examples of known in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Experts point out that there are no known examples of this sort of clothing in comparable sculptures from Anatolia or mainland Greece, so the garb reflects a local tradition distinct to the ancient kingdom of Lydia. — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Less well known is that Keisha Lance Bottoms, the Democratic nominee for governor, has an equally personal experience with adoption. — Patricia Murphy, AJC.com, 3 Aug. 2026 Bustling Lisbon and the sunny Algarve coast are well known to tourists (for good reason), but quieter places also offer tantalizing tastes of Portuguese flavor. — Rick Steves, Washington Post, 2 Aug. 2026 Boras clients are well known for rarely, if ever, signing extensions, instead waiting for the open market to identify the highest bidder. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for known

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of known was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing known

Rhymes for known

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Browse Nearby Words

Knowles
known
know no bounds
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Cite this Entry

“Known.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/known. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

known

adjective
ˈnōn How to pronounce known (audio)
: generally recognized
a known expert on art

More from Merriam-Webster on known

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for known

Nglish: Translation of known for Spanish Speakers

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