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Definition of legend : 1. A story respecting saints; especially, one of a marvelous nature.
2. An inscription, motto, or title, esp. one surrounding the field in a medal or coin, or placed upon an heraldic shield or beneath an engraving or illustration.
3. Any wonderful story coming down from the past, but not verifiable by historical record; a myth; a fable.
4. That which is appointed to be read; especially, a chronicle or register of the lives of saints, formerly read at matins, and in the refectories of religious houses.
5. To tell or narrate, as a legend.

Synonyms:

caption, belief, religion, falsehood, title, tradition, knowledge, figment, fabrication, real, mythos, invention, inscription, apologue, subtitle, lore, folklore, mythology, writing, motto

gesture, stamp, alert, motion, notation, denotation, symbol, pointer, hint, flag, beacon, wink, logo, label, emblem, badge, icon, guidepost, gesticulation, banner, marker, brand, crest, logotype, ticket, insignia, cue, prompt, designation, token, signal, signpost, wave, semaphore, lighthouse, figuration, indication, sign, tag, key

fame, esteem, preeminence, notoriety, noteworthiness, celebrity, illustriousness, acclaim, fable, famousness, renown, notability, memorability, distinction, reputation, popularity, prominence, elevation

epic, plot, plainness, prose, novella, scenario, narrative, reading matter, prosaicness, retelling, short story, myth, tale, saga, account, reminiscence, episode, yarn, romance, fiction, chronicle, allegory, serial, story, recount, storyline, novel, anecdote, parable

Usage examples:

• The essential features of his life and thought are distinctly outlined through the mist of time, and above the clouds of legend that hang low upon the horizon where he disappeared. - "The Right and Wrong Uses of the Bible", R. Heber Newton.
• A still better example of this American way of dealing with legend and mystery is the marvellous tale of the rival ghosts. - "Tales of Fantasy and Fact", Brander Matthews.
• Wherever he went he was confronted with the legend: 'No hands wanted'. - "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists", Robert Tressell.