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 This two-story house offers a capacious living environment with its five bedrooms and three bathrooms. Bay Area Home Report, Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2026 How could a short interview possibly capture Ferlinghetti’s capacious curiosity and commitment to literary activism? Gioia Woods, Literary Hub, 6 Feb. 2026 The high bed positioning leaves a capacious garage down below for whatever campers are bringing along for the ride, and a passthrough door accommodates longer items like skis or surfboards. New Atlas, 25 Jan. 2026 The veteran sideline reporter and member of FOX Sports’ A-Team braved the freezing temperature in Philly by swaddling herself in a capacious coat, which drew comparisons to a diverse array of notorious icons of warmth including Cruella De Ville, Jon Snow, emus, mob wives, pimps, and Ric Flair. Perrie Samotin, Glamour, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • The halls and corridors are wide and spacious.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Upgrade your outdoor space with a spacious sectional, adjustable lounge chairs, and durable dining sets for alfresco meals.
    Jacquelyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • As Dwyane Wade learned, few are Heat players for life, with even Udonis Haslem part of ample trade speculation during his Heat-only NBA career.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2026
  • The heavier hybrid system doesn’t strip noticeable power from the highway experience, with ample output allowing the driver to leave traffic behind at will.
    John Scott Lewinski, Robb Report, 8 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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