splendor

noun

splen·​dor ˈsplen-dər 

1

a

: great brightness or luster : brilliancy

b

: magnificence, pomp

2

: something splendid

the splendors of the past

splendorous adjective

or less commonly splendrous

ˈsplen-d(ə-)rəs 

Synonyms of splendor

• majesty
• brilliance
• glory
• elegance
• magnificence
• grandeur
• nobility

Examples of splendor in a Sentence

The palace had lost much of its original splendor.

the splendor of the ancient monument awed us into silence

Recent Examples on the Web

The material splendor and virtuosic craftsmanship of these gifts expressed both political power and Christian devotion. —Sarah Kozlowski, Dallas Morning News, 21 Mar. 2026

These cabins are located amongst the splendor of the Badlands National Park; expect to wake up surrounded by nature and excellent views. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Mar. 2026

The resort’s minimalist architecture blends seamlessly into the natural landscape with rooms designed around large windows that bring the natural splendor inside. —Kelsey Eisen, Robb Report, 19 Mar. 2026

Appalachian State students and visitors from near and far spend the weekend marveling at their splendor. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English splendure, from Anglo-French splendur, from Latin splendor, from splendēre

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for splendor

• bender
• blender
• fender
• gender
• lender
• mender
• prendre
• render
• sender
• slender
• tender
• vender

Kids Definition

splendor

noun

splen·​dor ˈsplen-dər 

1

: great brightness : brilliance

the splendor of the sun

2

: pomp sense 1, glory

the splendor of ancient Rome

3

: something splendid

the splendors of the past

splendorous adjective

also splendrous

ˈsplen-d(ə-)rəs