EXCELLENT Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

excellent

adjective

ˈek-s(ə-)lənt

Definition of excellent

as in superb

of the very best kind fast-food fans rate this chain's fries as excellent

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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 excellent Spain pushed their full-backs very high — Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella were both excellent in the 3-0 round-of-32 win over Austria, which was this side’s best performance. — Michael Cox, New York Times, 20 July 2026 Although the eclipse itself will be very shallow, the park is among the best suited for the Perseids later that night, when low light pollution and established observing fields provide excellent meteor-viewing conditions. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 19 July 2026 Barbados is, unsurprisingly, an excellent spot for scuba diving, and for those wishing to finally pick up their PADI license. — Jonnie Bayfield, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 July 2026 The variable timing, temperatures, grind consistency and ratios for excellent pour-overs are tricky to master — which is arguably part of the obsession for me. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 19 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for excellent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for excellent

Adjective

There are some superb central defenders who have not made our list, which just highlights the level Vidic reached.

— Andy Mitten, New York Times, 22 July 2026
Small is a superb route runner, while Everhart is the type of athlete who can turn a jet sweep or bubble screen into a chunk play.

— Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 July 2026

Definition of superb

Adjective

McKinney missed eight games in 2022 after an ATV accident in Cabo during the team's bye week, then rebounded with a terrific 2023 season.

— Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
The base configuration is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX processor that’s terrific for 3D renders, heavy multitasking, and—of course—pushing refresh rates forward in your heavy-duty gaming.

— Kelsey Fogarty, PC Magazine, 23 July 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

Important settlements have existed here since the Roman times, when it was described by the writer Ausonius as one of Gaul’s great educational centers.

— Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 26 July 2026
Getty Images Errol Spence had a great career, but at 36 years old and after three years out of the ring, the former world champion has hit his ceiling in boxing.

— Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

Definition of great

Adjective

One hundred would be awesome, though, so that my children can get all the publishing.

— Ernesto Lechner, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026
James was a Fanatics Fest participant and was reunited with the paper, which was at the Celebrity Mint table, completing an awesome full-circle moment.

— David Betancourt, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Definition of awesome

Adjective

My editor Lori and I have been eyeing the sparse market for fabulous toilets since March, but found none so ornate as these Mexican-style pieces.

— Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 22 July 2026
Of all the fabulous sideline styles, my favorite was, by far, an iconic matching moment between Martha Stewart and Victoria Beckham.

— Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 21 July 2026

Definition of fabulous

Browse Nearby Words

excellency

excellent

excellently

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“Excellent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/excellent. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of excellent

adjective

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