EXCELLENT Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

excellent

adjective

ˈek-s(ə-)lənt

Definition of excellent

as in wonderful

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

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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 excellent The 49ers wasted the excellent field position and opportunity to mount a go-ahead drive when Purdy threw his second interception that led to Nick Folk's 31-yard field goal. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 Comedor has an incredible list of tequilas and mezcals; the bartenders make excellent recommendations. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026 Read Nellie Andreeva’s excellent report on his career and prospects here. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2026 There are excellent instructions and some gentle runs for first-timers and the pint-sized crowd. — Lindsay Cohn, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for excellent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for excellent

Adjective

An itinerary of hikes, wine tastings, and a sunset cruise offering incredible views of the Santa Barbara coastline is a wonderful way to end the day, while a cozy house with a garden will add to everyone’s enjoyment.

— Vogue, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
The improbable evening turned into a moving tribute to both Capra himself and his tale of the suicidal banker George Bailey, who comes to realize that his life has indeed been wonderful.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of wonderful

Adjective

As for Hüller, this is another superb performance in a series of them in recent years.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026
Jansen then trapped Travis Head lbw for 14 after a review and Simon Harmer took a superb catch at gully to send back Marnus Labuschagne (14) with Australia reduced to 45-4 in 14 overs.

— ABC News, ABC News, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of superb

Adjective

L3Harris claims its design can deliver greater range and speed than existing systems.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
Tarantino revealed the most personally meaningful piece of casting in a film filled with great performances — including supporting turns by multiple actors (Austin Butler, Mikey Madison, Sydney Sweeney) who have blown up in the seven years since.

— Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of great

Adjective

Mainly notable for its high-octane car chases and terrific stunt work, the film should, like most of Neeson’s recent efforts, find its biggest audiences on streaming and cable.

— Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 28 Oct. 2026
Our review praised the terrific gunplay, tense matches, and incredible graphics.

— Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

The loss ended a fantastic two-year run for the Vikings and their nine senior starters.

— Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026
This is a fantastic new addition to the category, with notes of tropical fruit, citrus, vanilla, and roasted almond that lead every sip.

— Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2026

Definition of fantastic

Adjective

Montserrat Collection Residence Set within a 1930s French-style building, this lovely home features contemporary Argentine art and mid-century design.

— Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026
But Mi-ok is game to be interviewed, and her words spring to life in wistfully lovely flashbacks.

— Justin Chang, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of lovely

Adjective

Featuring 36 pieces spanning handbags, jewelry, and footwear, the festive edit has something for everyone on your list, from the fabulous women in your life to the equally stylish men.

— Laura Jackson, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
Additionally, Kay offers a fabulous shipping policy, excellent financing options, and some old-school retail perks that are seemingly extinct everywhere else.

— Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of fabulous

Browse Nearby Words

excellency

excellent

excellently

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Style

“Excellent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/excellent. Accessed 30 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of excellent

adjective

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