kjent

Kjent is a Norwegian word that functions as an adjective meaning "known" or "familiar" and as the past participle of the verb kjenne, which means "to know." In Bokmål, kjent is used to describe something that is widely recognized or familiar, as in en kjent person (a well-known person) or et kjent sted (a familiar or famous place). The form also appears in plural phrases such as kjente personer (well-known people) and kjente steder (familiar places). The use of kjent can appear in various contexts, from everyday speech to media headlines.

Etymology and linguistic notes: Kjent derives from the verb kjenne, itself linked to Old Norse kenna and related West Germanic roots connected to cognates like German kennen, Dutch kennen, and English know. The past participle construction is a common feature across Norwegian dialects and closely mirrors parallel forms in related languages. Spelling and inflection can vary by dialect, but the core meaning remains the same: something that is known or recognized.

Other uses and context: Beyond its primary adjectival role, kjent may appear as part of phrases indicating public recognition or familiarity, for example in expressions like "kjent ansikt" (a familiar face) or in headlines about known issues. While kjent is overwhelmingly a descriptive adjective, it is not a common standalone given name or surname, though languages sometimes permit unconventional uses in artistic or branding contexts.

See also: kjenne; kendt in Danish; cognates in German kennen, Dutch kennen; known.