Definition of plentifulnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective plentiful differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of plentiful are abundant, ample, and copious. While all these words mean "more than sufficient without being excessive," plentiful implies a great or rich supply.

peaches are plentiful this summer

How do abundant and plentiful relate to one another?

Abundant suggests an even greater or richer supply than does plentiful.

streams abundant with fish

When is it sensible to use ample instead of plentiful?

Although the words ample and plentiful have much in common, ample implies a generous sufficiency to satisfy a particular requirement.

ample food to last the winter

When can copious be used instead of plentiful?

While the synonyms copious and plentiful are close in meaning, copious stresses largeness of supply rather than fullness or richness.

copious examples of bureaucratic waste

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 plentiful Otters, once plentiful in Indiana, were hunted en masse for their thick fur. Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 11 Feb. 2026 Despite the scenic landscape, there is more to Switzerland than outdoor adventure (though that is plentiful, too). Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026 The spacious suite had a sliver of a view down to Cayuga Lake, along with plentiful seating areas, a fabulous marble bathroom (again with double sinks and, this time, a huge soaking tub), and a cozy entryway that was ideal for shedding layers after coming back in from the cold. Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2026 The crowds were multi-generational and memories plentiful. Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for plentiful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for plentiful
Adjective
  • This small electric sedan boasts an affordable starting price, ample range and helpful technology features.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 Feb. 2026
  • There is ample parking at the venue.
    Ramona Sentinel, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The most generous interpretation of the New Atheist view on this question is that people ought to have the freedom to decide for themselves.
    Christopher Beha, New Yorker, 14 Feb. 2026
  • There's little a generous spoonful of fresh field peas won't compliment.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Built from abundant molecular precursors, these polymer systems offer intrinsic structural flexibility alongside tunable electrochemical properties.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Light, both natural and artificial, was abundant.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Plentiful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/plentiful. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on plentiful

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