Search
Select the dictionary language
household name
/hˈaʊshoʊld nˈeɪm/
/hˈaʊshəʊld nˈeɪm/
Household name
01
a person, brand, or product widely known and recognized by the general public
What is the origin of the idiom "household name" and when to use it?
The term "household name" is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century. It is thought that the term was first used to describe people who were well-known in their own homes, but not necessarily by the general public. Over time, the term came to be used to describe anyone or anything that was known by a large number of people.
Examples
That actor has become a household name thanks to the hit series.
Coca-Cola is a household name around the world.
