Definition of capaciousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective capacious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of capacious are ample, commodious, and spacious. While all these words mean "larger in extent or capacity than the average," capacious stresses the ability to hold, contain, or retain more than the average.

a capacious suitcase

When could ample be used to replace capacious?

In some situations, the words ample and capacious are roughly equivalent. However, ample implies having a greater size, expanse, or amount than that deemed adequate.

ample closet space

When is it sensible to use commodious instead of capacious?

The meanings of commodious and capacious largely overlap; however, commodious stresses roominess and comfortableness.

a commodious and airy penthouse apartment

When is spacious a more appropriate choice than capacious?

The synonyms spacious and capacious are sometimes interchangeable, but spacious implies great length and breadth.

a spacious front lawn

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 capacious Angular and capacious, the tote also benefits from a range of trendy colorways. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 22 Dec. 2025 One way to do that is to find chic winter accessories like leather gloves, fluffy earmuffs, a cool-kid beanie, platform boots, or a ludicrously capacious scarf. Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 8 Dec. 2025 No, Tyla wasn’t toting a capacious carry-on bag, but rather, a small (and hot) designer purse from the 2000s, one that fellow stars like Rihanna and Zendaya frequently love to wear, too. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 7 Dec. 2025 Abraham Lincoln denounced the decision and countered by defining a more capacious view of American freedom based on the declaration. Graeme MacK, The Conversation, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • Beyond its spacious capacity, the purse is constructed with a blend of cow hide and steer leather, which is durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Christmas garlands, high heels, and even craft supplies have all found a home in the spacious cavity.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • With sturdy construction, ample shelf space, and glass doors, china cabinets are excellent for storing and displaying delicate china sets, trinkets, decorative plates, heirloom decor, and more.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Both benchmarks extended declines of more than $1 from the previous trading session, as market participants expected ample global supply this year.
    Matt Nighswander, NBC news, 7 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Capacious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capacious. Accessed 14 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on capacious

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