make a name for (oneself)

make a name for (oneself)

To establish oneself in a particular field or area; to become well-known. It took a long time and a bunch of supporting roles, but I've finally made a name for myself as an actor.See also: make, name

make a name (for oneself)

Fig. to become famous. Sally wants to work hard and make a name for herself. It's hard to make a name without a lot of talent and hard work.See also: make, name

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. See also: make, name

make a name for yourself

COMMON If you make a name for yourself by doing a particular thing, you become famous or well-known as a result of doing that thing. Abbott quickly made a name for herself as a hardworking MP. Away from film acting, Everett also made a name for herself as a popular fashion model.See also: make, name

make a name for yourself

become famous.See also: make, name

make a ˈname for yourself

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make your ˈname

become successful and well known because of your skill in doing something very well: She quickly made a name for herself as one of the best brain surgeons in the country. ♢ He made his name in the theatre and then moved into movies.See also: make, name