The semi-barren are the possessors of fame (6)

I believe the answer is:

renown

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'fame' is the definition.
(I know that fame can be written as renown)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for renown that I've seen before include "High repute" , "Fame and distinction" , "Celebrity, fame" , "Good reputation" , "Plane's maximum width" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.

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