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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective splendid contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of splendid are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When can glorious be used instead of splendid?

The synonyms glorious and splendid are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

Where would gorgeous be a reasonable alternative to splendid?

The meanings of gorgeous and splendid largely overlap; however, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

In what contexts can resplendent take the place of splendid?

The words resplendent and splendid can be used in similar contexts, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When would sublime be a good substitute for splendid?

In some situations, the words sublime and splendid are roughly equivalent. However, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When is superb a more appropriate choice than splendid?

The words superb and splendid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of splendid The splendid design was a bit of a departure from the many fanciful gowns that are typically taken for a spin in Cannes during this time of year. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 16 May 2025 What remains consistent is the splendid topography of Frazier’s prose, and the sense throughout his work that there are, in fact, no uninteresting places, just uninteresting writers. The Atlantic, 15 May 2025 Then enjoy a splendid dinner at Birkdale Village — Red Rocks comes to mind, or somewhere more casual like Midwood Smokehouse. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2025 There are also buildings like the Fairmont Monte Carlo and the Hôtel de Paris, both of which look splendid. David Phelan, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • In one of his only performances as an ostensibly normal guy, Cruise brings magnificent dirtbag energy to War of the Worlds' Ray, a working-class deadbeat dad whose one weekend with his kids (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin) overlaps with an alien invasion.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 24 May 2025
  • Heart rate rises, breath softens, and eyes glue to this magnificent 500-pound mammal that could rip me to pieces with the simple swipe of its striped paw.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • During informational interviews, asking for ideas of great places to keep an eye on is an excellent way to add to your list.
    Rebecca Fraser-Thill, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025
  • Give your wooden nickel to the mixologist, take your pick between La Babia, an excellent margarita, or Three Emmas, grab a book off the shelf, and take a seat.
    Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • The results give a dazzling, simultaneous impression of serenity and velocity—half zen garden, half hyperspeed blur.
    Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 29 May 2025
  • The event will feature a lineup of live entertainment, including performances by The Betties, the Orlando Gay Chorus, and the dazzling Kissimmee Queens.
    Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • The wedding went off without a hitch, a glorious event on a glorious August day.
    Lian Dolan, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • This title is up for grabs in the most glorious of ways.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • My daughter came to live with us for nine wonderful years.
    Jack Lang, New York Times, 27 May 2025
  • Your wonderful dog may or may not hanker to break routine and go on holiday.
    John Oseid, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Adjective
  • But for dryer skin types, this step can be skipped so the Glow Mist can easily lock everything in while keeping the skin luminous, fresh and protected throughout the day.
    Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • What finally elevated my perspective was a luminous Book that perfectly alchemized my thoughts, beliefs, with human nature.
    Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • What Is The Premise of the New Season of Phineas and Ferb? Phineas Flynn, his stepbrother Ferb Fletcher, and their crew of friends are still planning and embarking on epic summer adventures.
    Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 28 May 2025
  • Another twist in the tale of what has been an epic play-off tournament in Argentina.
    Joseph O'Sullivan, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Adjective
  • Even with challenging oppositions, Siakam has been terrific throughout the playoffs.
    Tony East, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
  • The second half of the film is simpler and stronger, with a terrific supporting performance by ASAP Rocky as a rapper named Yung Felon.
    Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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