splendid

adjective

splen·​did ˈsplen-dəd How to pronounce splendid (audio)
1
: possessing or displaying splendor: such as
b
: marked by showy magnificence
2
3
a
: excellent
a splendid opportunity
b
: being out of the ordinary : singular
splendidly adverb
splendidness noun
Choose the Right Synonym for splendid

splendid, resplendent, gorgeous, glorious, sublime, superb mean extraordinarily or transcendently impressive.

splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

Examples of splendid in a Sentence

We have a splendid opportunity to do something really useful. I have some splendid news. “We'll be coming out to visit over the summer.” “Oh, splendid!”
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The lilies come in a splendid range of vivid colors and the lily pads are just as interesting – some three feet across; some with scalloped edges and various textures. Bonnie Gross, Sun Sentinel, 4 June 2025 Eve’s traumatic childhood loss is seen in an exciting opening sequence, in which divers with crossbows emerge from the sea and promptly wipe out guards at a splendid coastal villa. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2025 Golf fans are certain to delight in the property’s 18-hole lakeside course, with splendid views of El Yunque National Forest found all throughout the area, while the athletically-inclined are welcome to hit the tennis courts or spend an hour at the fitness center. Jared Ranahan, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 The Padres wore their splendid brown road tops yesterday for just the fifth time this season. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid

Word History

Etymology

Latin splendidus, from splendēre to shine; perhaps akin to Middle Irish lainn bright

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of splendid was in 1624

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/splendid. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

splendid

adjective
splen·​did ˈsplen-dəd How to pronounce splendid (audio)
1
: having or showing splendor : brilliant
2
: impressive in beauty, grandeur, or excellence
a splendid job
a splendid palace
3
: excellent
had a splendid time at the beach
splendidly adverb
splendidness noun
Etymology

from Latin splendidus "splendid, brilliant," from splendēre "to shine"

More from Merriam-Webster on splendid

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