出名 (chū míng) is a verb meaning 'to become famous' or 'to gain fame'. Literally, 出 means 'to go out' or 'to emerge', and 名 means 'name' or 'reputation'; together, they evoke the idea of one's name emerging into public awareness — that is, becoming widely known. It emphasizes the process or result of rising to prominence, often through achievement, talent, media exposure, or sometimes controversy.

This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, especially when discussing people (artists, athletes, entrepreneurs) or things (restaurants, brands, places) that have recently attracted widespread attention. It can be used with time phrases (e.g., 一夜之间出名 — 'become famous overnight') or with degree adverbs like 很 (very), 突然 (suddenly), or 终于 (finally). Unlike the noun 名气 (fame), 出名 focuses on the dynamic event of becoming known rather than the state of being famous.