celebrity; notable figure; personage
Refers to a well-known, respected person in society, often in fields like politics, business, or culture. Slightly formal and somewhat dated; 有名人 is more common in everyday speech.
地元の名士が集まるパーティーに招待された。
I was invited to a party where local notables gathered.
He is known as a prominent figure in the political world.
名士 highlights social reputation and public renown, while 有力者 emphasizes practical influence or power.
名士 refers to a person of social distinction or reputation, while 要人 refers more specifically to someone important in political or official affairs.
Compound of 名 (name, fame) and 士 (gentleman, scholar, person of high standing). The combination suggests a person of recognized name and status.