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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 Holmdel building was the next step, a gleaming, impeccable prism meant to contain thousands of scientists in splendid quiet isolation. Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 27 Feb. 2025 Half an hour more of this splendid confusion and our lion hunt would be a complete and unqualified bust. Frank C. Hibben, Outdoor Life, 27 Feb. 2025 After passing through strict security and pacing across a splendid inner courtyard, there are views of spacious and sumptuously decorated rooms before entering the chandelier lit Senate restaurant. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025 The centerpiece of the backyard is a splendid infinity pool with a baja shelf, spa and cabana. David Caraccio, Sacramento Bee, 22 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • All of the magnificent seven tech stocks are down today on the tariffs news.
    Ece Yildirim, Quartz, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Adebayo was stupendous early; Herro was magnificent in the second half.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Two standout experiences near the water include Schooner’s in the Caribbean Village, open for breakfast and dinner (chef Chris’s swordfish steak was excellent) as well as Barefoot by the Sea in the Italian Village.
    Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Rear space is excellent, with plenty of legroom and headroom, accentuated by the panoramic sunroof.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Also strutting her stuff is the dazzling Jayme Lawson as Pearline, a local woman unleashed by the excitement of Club Juke.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The 76-minute episode is essentially a tight feature film, starring the dazzling ensemble of Cristin Milioti, Jesse Plemons, Jimmi Simpson, Michaela Coel, Billy Magnussen, and more.
    Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The Frick Collection celebrated its reopening Monday night with a black tie gala befitting its glorious surroundings.
    Bettina Zilkha, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025
  • From a glorious span that included winning the 2013 MLS Cup and eight straight postseason appearances, Peter Vermes’ Sporting KC club hadn’t finished higher than eighth in the league standings since 2021.
    Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Embracing different cultures: There is plenty of wonderful Mexican culture depicted throughout the film, from cooking traditional dishes to the vibrant atmosphere.
    Alex Vance, Parents, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Cherish these moments and know that your efforts to preserve their voices are a wonderful tribute to your relationships.
    Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, FOXNews.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • That Del Toro juxtaposed luminous elements fit for a fairy tale with unflinching violence prompted an epiphany for Ezban.
    Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 4 Apr. 2025
  • For the show, the Symphony of Flowers, the operator would install at Huntington Central Park more than 100,000 luminous flowers totaling 500,000 LED lights that are choreographed to accompany classical music played over speakers.
    Michael Slaten, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Anyway, David won, which would turn out to be a bummer of epic proportions due to the imminent jury ramifications.
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The unit, which Morgan’s knows all too well, was a disaster of epic proportions, giving up the most points in a 17-game season and the most rushing yards in a campaign since 1980.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Ovechkin is easy to like, though, by all accounts a terrific teammate.
    Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 7 Apr. 2025
  • But Campbell, one of the hardest workers in this draft class, is a terrific athlete.
    Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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