Definition of fabulousnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word fabulous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of fabulous are apocryphal, fictitious, legendary, and mythical. While all these words mean "having the nature of something imagined or invented," fabulous stresses the marvelous or incredible character of something without necessarily implying impossibility or actual nonexistence.

a land of fabulous riches

When is apocryphal a more appropriate choice than fabulous?

While the synonyms apocryphal and fabulous are close in meaning, apocryphal implies an unknown or dubious source or origin or may imply that the thing itself is dubious or inaccurate.

a book that repeats many apocryphal stories

Where would fictitious be a reasonable alternative to fabulous?

The words fictitious and fabulous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fictitious implies fabrication and suggests artificiality or contrivance more than deliberate falsification or deception.

fictitious characters

When might legendary be a better fit than fabulous?

The meanings of legendary and fabulous largely overlap; however, legendary suggests the elaboration of invented details and distortion of historical facts produced by popular tradition.

the legendary exploits of Davy Crockett

When could mythical be used to replace fabulous?

Although the words mythical and fabulous have much in common, mythical implies a purely fanciful explanation of facts or the creation of beings and events out of the imagination.

mythical creatures

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 fabulous While not every fabulous couch or armchair needs the boot, do take stock of any existing antique upholstered or stuffed furniture in your home. Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 17 July 2026 Uniquely, the resort has a no-menu concept and a fabulous team of chefs who love a culinary challenge. Katie Lockhart, Robb Report, 16 July 2026 On the savory front PJ’s offers gluten-free buns for its fabulous lobster rolls and a truly delicious linguiça roll for those who prefer meat. Luke Pyenson, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026 Stay at one of the desert city’s fabulous hotels—boutique and eccentric or ultra-glam, take your pick—or book an Airbnb and hang out poolside in peace and quiet. Kara Nesvig, Parents, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for fabulous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fabulous
Adjective
  • The fiery, legendary figure of Jose Mourinho has just taken over as Madrid manager.
    Tim Spiers, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • Tequila Ocho was founded by legendary fifth-generation maestro tequilero Carlos Camarena and the late tequila ambassador Tomas Estes in 2008.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 20 July 2026
Adjective
  • And this World Cup was about Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and all of Spain’s wonderful passers.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 22 July 2026
  • To be in, like, the very first episode to the last, a show that is now being spun off to other stories, that is so wonderful.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 22 July 2026
Adjective
  • Rather than shattering the illusion, the heroine invents an increasingly elaborate fictional life to protect her mother — and, ultimately, herself.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 21 July 2026
  • Her feature-length films include the documentaries The factory is full (2012) and Shores (2015), and the fictional feature Pawn Street (2017).
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • This is an easy-drinking, refreshing wine with lovely fruit and some tannins to give it structure.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
  • Just like lily of the valley, Canada mayflower has low-growing foliage and lovely white flowers.
    Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 20 July 2026
Adjective
  • The World Heritage inscription of Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the 12 Olympian gods, rewarded a 12-year effort by Greece to secure recognition for its tallest mountain as a mixed cultural and natural heritage site.
    ABC News, ABC News, 26 July 2026
  • The original Cappuccino enjoys near-mythical status among enthusiasts, especially as Japanese domestic-market classics continue to rise in value worldwide.
    Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026
Adjective
  • But the Orlando installation also will not have the amazing hillside setting with its valley and mountain views that the California original promises.
    Robert Niles, Oc Register, 21 July 2026
  • Harnessing the amazing benefits AI can provide means first developing your executive decision-making skills.
    Hanneke Antonelli, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • Anyway, Will Venable has my imaginary vote, though Mike Vasil's wizardry might be the bigger reason why the White Sox are rolling.
    Andy McCullough, New York Times, 17 July 2026
  • Her function in the movie is less goddess and more imaginary friend.
    Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 17 July 2026
Adjective
  • The roofline leaves enough headroom for actual adults, the cargo area is genuinely useful, and visibility remains excellent.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 20 July 2026
  • City Colleges of Chicago, the University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago State University and National Louis University, among others, have built their reputations on the premise that everyone deserves access to an excellent education.
    Andrea Sáenz, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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