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 Would the passersby’s promise of a glorious view be realized? Literary Hub, 6 Aug. 2026 The peonies had a glorious two-week flash in late spring; dahlias are on deck for late summer, ready to churn out rounds of dinner-plate-size blooms. Laura Regensdorf, Architectural Digest, 5 Aug. 2026 This summer, celebrities are busy having a glorious euro-summer. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 5 Aug. 2026 Here are the two main roads CX will go down in the future, one arrives at a glorious future, the other at a dark dead-end. Nir Bashan, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for glorious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glorious
Adjective
  • Finalists, who have just been announced, have captured magnificent shots of everything from fish protecting their young to human impact – good and bad.
    Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026
  • In Sterling’s determination to get the Lotus running and to drive it come what may, Tregenza presents the need for speed as a magnificent obsession and the thrill of physical experience as a spiritual quest.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • That epic coming-of-age drama ended with its main character leaving his transient childhood behind and moving into his dorm room at college.
    Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Every time that epic foursome is onstage together, the whole crew leans in.
    David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Shot across the teeming city streets and the majestic underground caves of Ireland, Bucking Fastard features operatic imagery from the director’s longtime cinematographer Peter Zeitlinger.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 11 Aug. 2026
  • The rolling hills behind the beach looked majestic against the darkening sky.
    Annie Daly, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Propaganda posters from the era from both the democratic United States and the Axis powers surround the imposing, heavy-duty boots, covered in animal hair and insulation.
    Douglas Markowitz, Miami Herald, 14 July 2026
  • The source of Soloviev’s angst lay in part in growing up with a father who was one of the more imposing, cantankerous figures in the history of New York real estate — a demographic with stiff competition.
    Reeves Wiedeman, Curbed, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Though Hallegua and Josephai rarely meet, both are intensely proud of their ancient heritage.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Spanish-speaking students and staff at Oak Lawn Community High School are proud of their heritage and will share it with the larger community during a festival that celebrates Hispanic food and culture.
    Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Costs had been on the decline since March 2025, following a massive outbreak of bird flu that disrupted the egg supply and sent retail prices soaring.
    Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Future generations not only had to make up these missing deposits but also the massive investment earnings that could have been achieved.
    Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 14 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Glorious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glorious. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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