magnificence

noun

mag·​nif·​i·​cence mag-ˈni-fə-sən(t)s 

məg-

1

: the quality or state of being magnificent

2

: splendor of surroundings

Synonyms

• brilliance
• majesty
• glory
• elegance
• grandeur

Examples of magnificence in a Sentence

the magnificence of the great castle hallway is beyond description

Recent Examples on the Web

If the marathons of New York and London showcase splendour and establishment and magnificence and size and place, then the Great North Run offers something else; to complete it, to witness it, is to understand its pull. —George Caulkin, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025

For decades, moviegoers have come to appreciate his eye for artsy, captivating visuals, such as the opening montage of his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, which begins with the magnificence of a Brooklyn morning. —Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 26 Aug. 2025

Ray lauds the magnificence of the locale, surrounded by mountainous views and rich greenery almost as beautiful as his bride. —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 20 Aug. 2025

Who demonstrates the most magnificence? —Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 15 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin magnificentia, from magnificus noble in character, magnificent, from magnus great + -ficus -fic — more at much

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for magnificence

• munificence

Kids Definition

magnificence

noun

mag·​nif·​i·​cence mag-ˈnif-ə-sən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being magnificent