resplendent

Definition of resplendentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resplendent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resplendent are glorious, gorgeous, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When might glorious be a better fit than resplendent?

Although the words glorious and resplendent have much in common, glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When can gorgeous be used instead of resplendent?

The words gorgeous and resplendent can be used in similar contexts, but gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is splendid a more appropriate choice than resplendent?

The synonyms splendid and resplendent are sometimes interchangeable, but splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When would sublime be a good substitute for resplendent?

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

a vision of sublime beauty

When could superb be used to replace resplendent?

While in some cases nearly identical to resplendent, 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 resplendent Know More Initially founded in 2012 with a $5 million dollar grant from the John Templeton Foundation, Nautilus incinerated cash, sparing no expense in its pursuit of bringing resplendent literary science to the reading public. Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 16 Feb. 2026 Then they were gone, swallowed up by the trees’ resplendent emerald green. Jeff Chu, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026 On a gray and rainy Sunday morning in October, the Russell Farms in Noblesville was resplendent in color with a wide variety of gourds and pumpkins in just about every shade of orange, yellow, green, white, blue. Kelly Wilkinson, IndyStar, 23 Oct. 2025 Let’s begin with Kiki Barth, who looks absolutely resplendent in a turquoise gown that evokes Old Hollywood glamour in a way that every Project Runway contestant has tried to channel and ultimately failed. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resplendent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resplendent
Adjective
  • The journey is a true adventure that includes moderate to challenging hikes, but the reward is a wild, unspoiled jungle with magnificent wildlife encounters—Osa Peninsula hosts approximately 50% of all of the species found in Costa Rica.
    Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Bring part of that magnificent collection of art to the community.
    Laura Washington, Chicago Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • On the Island of the Gods, fresh ideas arrive like waves, creating a glorious cocktail of cultures and influences.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Mar. 2026
  • For All Mankind is back and rarin’ to go, kicking things off with the glorious return of the season-opening catch-up montage.
    Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 27 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • One is beautiful and famous the world over; the other is even more beautiful yet content not to have to put up with all the fuss and attention.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Mar. 2026
  • What happens when you are forced to choose between a beautiful, vulnerable tradition and your own self-actualization?
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 25 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Hoja Blanca crew has experimented with their own gorgeous versions, making rainbow patterns with different shades of masa.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Basketball legend Michael Jordan celebrated his 23XI Racing team’s fourth NASCAR win while wearing a gorgeous, limited-edition Greubel Forsey that retails for a hefty $500,000.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 28 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Depending on the combination, this creates either a clean, almost futuristic appeal or a soft, elegant look.
    Jana Ackermann, Glamour, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Van Beirendonck gravitates toward loud prints in bright colors and allusions to BDSM, whereas Van Saene makes elegant cocktail dresses for women with bow details and shrunken cardigans.
    Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 27 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Here, though, lovely poetic imagery is scrambled with old and alternate timelines, sending the reverie in unanticipated and often comic directions.
    Hannah Gold, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026
  • The foyer has a step-up entry from the front door, which feels elegant, and the living room is spacious with lovely touches in every direction — notice the built-ins with the arches that bookend the fireplace.
    Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 23 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The lobby is separated into small, lounge-like spaces, including a reception desk that’s tucked away in an alcove under a stunning sculpture of falling dandelions.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The Owls beat Tennessee in the Sweet 16 three years ago as part of a stunning run to the Final Four.
    CBS News, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Milton, who does it full-time, posts exquisite videos of the food, with mood music to suit the vibe of each or talks colorfully about the tastes.
    Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Jeannot’s timing was exquisite.
    Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 30 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resplendent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resplendent. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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