reputation-the general estimation that the public has for a person; he acquired a reputation as an actor before he started writing ; he was a person of bad report . Synonyms: report. REPUTATION, evidence. The opinion generally entertained by persons who know another, as to his character, (q.v.) or it is the opinion generally entertained by person; who know a family as to its pedigree, and the like. 2. In general, reputation is evidence to prove, 1st.