Definition of gloriousnext

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 The Izzy vote-out week was chaotic and glorious. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 4 June 2026 Short-term view This chart is glorious and the trend is magnificent. Jay Woods, CNBC, 4 June 2026 But the glorious music, conducted by Benjamin Manis, remains the same throughout. Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 4 June 2026 Owner Michel Reybier and designer Jacques Garcia have collaborated on several projects (La Chartreuse de Cos d’Estournel, on the estate of the same name in Bordeaux, is another glorious example). Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for glorious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glorious
Adjective
  • But the reality for magnificent creatures like this one is stark.
    Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 9 June 2026
  • But its real appeal to collectors lies in that magnificent metal open-gate manual shifter.
    Ben Oliver, Robb Report, 8 June 2026
Adjective
  • Over the years, the garden has produced epic shows, mostly through its process of scattering the work of such art celebrities as Dale Chihuly, Alexander Calder and Deborah Butterfield among the famous flora planted in its grounds on York Street.
    Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 7 June 2026
  • After decades of debate, a new study has revealed the epic journey that the Altar Stone, a six-ton sandstone block, took to arrive at the center of Stonehenge.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 6 June 2026
Adjective
  • John Travolta came in majestic fashion for his first film as a director, and Vin Diesel was accompanied by his cast and the entire Universal studio team.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 4 June 2026
  • Oak Grove Road runs southwest from Lakeside High beneath majestic pines and hardwoods, past old ranch houses and new mansions.
    Thomas Lake, AJC.com, 4 June 2026
Adjective
  • There’s Chateau de Fère and Les Crayères, which is very imposing and old-fashioned; a couple of very nice funky little boutique hotels (including one owned by the Selosse family who make amazing, and amazingly priced, grower Champagne) and lots of good chambres d'hôtes.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026
  • In person, Rowbottom is striking — tall, platinum blond, soft-spoken — though less imposing than carefully self-possessed.
    Mariella Rudi, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • Colombia of 1994 is not Colombia of 2026, a safer country, a happier country, a more united country, a prouder country.
    Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2026
  • The quality of your trip can set a tone for the next part of your day and can shift the experience of commuting to something of which to be proud in our city.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026
Adjective
  • The disappearance of a campground employee in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, has prompted a massive search, authorities said.
    Michael Guise, CBS News, 11 June 2026
  • But there was hope that the world coming to America could bring the kind of unity and joy typical of massive sporting contests like the World Cup.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 11 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Glorious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glorious. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.

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