Il-lūs’tri-ous, a.
a. [Lat. illustris, prefix il, for in, and lustrare, to purify by means of a propitiatory offering, from lustrum, a purificatory sacrifice, lustration; Fr. & It. illustre, Sp. lustre.] 1. Possessing luster, brightness, or brilliancy; luminous; splendid. Quench the light; thine eyes are guides illustrious. Beau. & Fl.
- Characterized by greatness, nobleness, &c.; eminent; conspicuous. “Illustrious earls, renowned every where.” Drayton.
- Conferring luster or honor; brilliant; renowned; as, illustrious deeds or titles.
Syn.—Distinguished; famous; remarkable; conspicuous; noted; celebrated; signal; renowned; eminent; exalted; noble; glorious. See DISTINGUISHED.