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 Its surroundings are glorious, with mountains all around; to the north is the Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany, which straddles the border with Austria. Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2025 This extraordinary group rallied together for a single glorious vision: to win four straight playoff games against the finest teams in college football. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2025 To Step Down As Managing Director Of Singapore’s Hotel Properties The quarter-final marathon against Arthur Fils was the best of the bunch, a captivating young twentysomething match-up of warrior spirits that was reminiscent of Alcaraz’s defeat by Musetti back in that glorious encounter in Germany. Tim Ellis, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 The next morning, Easter Sunday, brought glorious weather. Kristina Goetz, USA Today, 13 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glorious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glorious
Adjective
  • Ashford Castle – Ireland Originating from the 13th century, the magnificent Ashford Castle has a rich history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand luxury retreat adorned with antiques and artwork.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The main building, which was completed in 1932, has a magnificent 293-foot dome covered in real gold leaf.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The welcoming narration is a helpful and fun accompaniment on the epic ride.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 22 Apr. 2025
  • The Argonautica, an epic poem written by Apollonius of Rhodes in the third century B.C.E., chronicles the adventures of Jason and the Argonauts, including their encounter with Talos.
    Sofia Giannuzzi, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Fed from glaciers on Mount Shasta’s majestic slopes, Mossbrae Falls cascades out of lava tubes and down mossy cliffs into the Sacramento River in ethereal curtains of mist, sending rainbows dancing in all directions.
    Jessica Garrison, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 2025
  • In the 2011 final, Cristiano Ronaldo’s majestic leap and powerful header saw Jose Mourinho’s team crowned winners at the expense of their great rivals Barcelona after extra time.
    Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The far more imposing limit is MLS’s global standing.
    Jeff Rueter, The Athletic, 8 Feb. 2025
  • And on the other hand, in a world where most of their top arms remain healthy and effective, the Dodgers could possess one of the most imposing starting pitching staffs in recent memory.
    Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 18 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Christine Brown's 6 Children: All About Her Son and Daughters with Sister Wives Costar and Ex Kody Brown In December 2022, Christine shared a proud mom moment with her followers on Instagram, explaining how Truely stood up to a bully at school who was bothering her friend.
    Karli Bendlin, People.com, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Jaylon is a proud alumnus of the University of Georgia.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • In Season 1, Cassian was part of a massive prison break and an insurrection against Imperial forces in his home of Ferrix.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Losing 15% of a paycheck or a lump-sum tax refund can be a massive setback for a family living paycheck to paycheck.
    Shahar Ziv, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Ramzi wore hers with a 1984 Oscar de la Renta gown to The Frick’s grand reopening gala.
    Talia Abbas, Vogue, 29 Apr. 2025
  • That kind of grand expectation adds pressure to what feels like an already complex decision.
    Ruthie Ackerman, Time, 29 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Glorious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glorious. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

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