make a name for oneself


Achieve distinction, become prominent or well known, as in Martha is making a name for herself as an excellent chef. The earliest recorded use of this term was in John Wycliffe's followers' translation of the Bible (II Samuel 8:13): “Forsooth David made to him a name.” Also see make one's mark.

Words Nearby make a name for oneself

The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.