Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective glorious contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of glorious are gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When could gorgeous be used to replace glorious?

The words gorgeous and glorious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is it sensible to use resplendent instead of glorious?

The synonyms resplendent and glorious are sometimes interchangeable, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to glorious?

While in some cases nearly identical to glorious, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When might sublime be a better fit than glorious?

The meanings of sublime and glorious largely overlap; however, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When would superb be a good substitute for glorious?

While the synonyms superb and glorious are close in meaning, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

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 glorious Why didn’t this glorious space future come to pass? Big Think, 15 Oct. 2025 Cam’s a loose cannon, but in the most silly, glorious of ways. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 14 Oct. 2025 Brandon Elliott, aka Mullet Review, who's known around the Queen City for his mom-and-pop restaurant reviews, goofy T-shirts, and glorious blond locks, recently won the 2025 USA Adult Mullet Championship. Haadiza Ogwude, Cincinnati Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2025 Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, one of the most successful 100-meter sprinters in history, was also in attendance, and Serena Williams crowned her with a glorious headpiece from Tiffany’s, too. Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 13 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glorious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glorious
Adjective
  • Beneath the Sistine Chapel’s magnificent vaulted ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, Charles and Pope Leo XIV prayed together in a special ecumenical service – a first since at least the Reformation.
    Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 23 Oct. 2025
  • The latest temporary exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is pulling the cover back on one of the planet’s most magnificent animals.
    John Wenzel, Denver Post, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • This is how Bertolt Brecht defined the aim of epic theater.
    Susan Sontag, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Four straight losses, an SEC losing streak that has now reached 16 games, and Saturday’s epic collapse.
    Seth Emerson, New York Times, 26 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Rolls-Royce‘s most iconic model, the majestic Phantom limousine, the storied marque had to create something extra special.
    Howard Walker, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Shepherds now guide and offer hospitality to travelers in the majestic and wild Accursed Mountains.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In fact, the Sens could’ve benefitted from them being more imposing.
    Julian McKenzie, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025
  • At the heart of the property is the tahona, used to grind the agave used to make mezcal; this one is solar-powered though no less imposing.
    Carley Rojas Ávila, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Both of our co-founders, along with much of our leadership team, are proud Kentucky natives.
    Olivia Evans, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 Oct. 2025
  • In photos from the show, the proud mom and aunt could be seen walking down the runway hand-in-hand with her two sons, while Zaya led the way in front of them.
    Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The Jays capitalized on the Dodgers’ weak middle relief after chasing starter Blake Snell in the sixth inning to bust open a massive lead.
    Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
  • How to Watch Boise State vs Nevada Boise State enters as a massive favorite, having only lost two games this year, while winning five.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In 1898, architect René Binet unveiled his design for the Porte Monumentale, a grand three-legged archway intended to serve as the entrance portal to the upcoming 1900 Paris Exposition.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Ellison, founder of Skydance Media, has grand ambitions for the entertainment giant.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 27 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Glorious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glorious. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glorious

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!