1
2

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective radiant differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of radiant are bright, brilliant, luminous, and lustrous. While all these words mean "shining or glowing with light," radiant stresses the emission or seeming emission of rays of light.

In what contexts can bright take the place of radiant?

The words bright and radiant can be used in similar contexts, but bright implies emitting or reflecting a high degree of light.

When is it sensible to use brilliant instead of radiant?

Although the words brilliant and radiant have much in common, brilliant implies intense often sparkling brightness.

When can luminous be used instead of radiant?

While in some cases nearly identical to radiant, luminous implies emission of steady, suffused, glowing light by reflection or in surrounding darkness.

When would lustrous be a good substitute for radiant?

The meanings of lustrous and radiant largely overlap; however, lustrous stresses an even, rich light from a surface that reflects brightly without glittering.

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 radiant The radiant—or point where the meteors appear to emanate from—lies in Aquarius, which rises after midnight. Kayla Randall, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 May 2025 In fact, looking about 45 degrees away from the radiant often provides a better chance to catch long, dramatic meteor trails. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2025 Its appeal lies in its versatility: radiant and uplifting without being loud. Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 9 May 2025 The formulation blends hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and blue agave extract to keep the skin hydrated and radiant but never oily. Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for radiant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for radiant
Adjective
  • While cruises claimed over half of Greenland’s total tourism numbers in 2023, the future looks bright for air travel.
    Katherine Alex Beaven, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 May 2025
  • But when done right, the whole room can seem brighter and more spacious.
    Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 21 May 2025
Adjective
  • Her luminous journey has been showcased in prominent media, including South Jersey Magazine.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 7 May 2025
  • To the visible eye, every dress is in incredible condition—luminous colors, embroideries from more than a century ago that shimmer anew, each silhouette fitted impeccably on the mannequin—and for some visitors, this will prove the most remarkable part of the show.
    Amy Verner, Vogue, 7 May 2025
Adjective
  • While the country’s cuisine doesn’t enjoy a glowing international reputation, many of its most beloved dishes are simple, hearty and deeply rooted in local tradition.
    David Nikel, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • This is hardly a glowing endorsement from the network that, after 13 seasons, took the unprecedented decision to recast RHONY — a show that was once the jewel in the franchise’s crown — around a new group of women.
    Louis Staples, Rolling Stone, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Attendees rode in support of and alongside community member Eva Zamora, who is a shining example of how to live your best life with Parkinson’s disease and takes cycle classes at EōS regularly, a news release stated.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Her next shining moment comes when two young sisters enter the hospital.
    Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Stargazing North Carolinians are in luck this month – one of astronomy’s most dazzling phenomena will be visible soon.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025
  • As for her accessories, the actress kept her look minimal, favoring a few dazzling rings.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Skies will be mostly sunny with a 20% chance of rain.
    Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 May 2025
  • Additional alerts may be issued Tuesday afternoon if sunny and warm conditions continue, the alert said.
    Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • The slate, granite and marble headstones were shinier, with English letters and Chinese characters.
    Erika Hayasaki, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 May 2025
  • With its thin green light across its top and shiny white plastic shell, the Zafro gives EVE from WALL-E vibes.
    Julian Chokkattu, Wired News, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Montecito High School Para-educator Lindsay Swanson, an employee since August 2015, was praised for her passion and dedication while serving with a cheerful and positive demeanor.
    Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2025
  • The show follows the adventures of José, a cheerful and curious character, along with his best friends —Obi, a playful rabbit, and Kim, a curious monkey.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 9 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Radiant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/radiant. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on radiant

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!