resplendent

Definition of resplendentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resplendent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resplendent are glorious, gorgeous, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When might glorious be a better fit than resplendent?

Although the words glorious and resplendent have much in common, glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When can gorgeous be used instead of resplendent?

The words gorgeous and resplendent can be used in similar contexts, but gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is splendid a more appropriate choice than resplendent?

The synonyms splendid and resplendent are sometimes interchangeable, but splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When would sublime be a good substitute for resplendent?

In some situations, the words sublime and resplendent are roughly equivalent. However, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When could superb be used to replace resplendent?

While in some cases nearly identical to resplendent, 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 resplendent Then they were gone, swallowed up by the trees’ resplendent emerald green. Jeff Chu, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026 On a gray and rainy Sunday morning in October, the Russell Farms in Noblesville was resplendent in color with a wide variety of gourds and pumpkins in just about every shade of orange, yellow, green, white, blue. Kelly Wilkinson, IndyStar, 23 Oct. 2025 Let’s begin with Kiki Barth, who looks absolutely resplendent in a turquoise gown that evokes Old Hollywood glamour in a way that every Project Runway contestant has tried to channel and ultimately failed. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 17 Oct. 2025 Although this is a popular summer spot for hikers who traverse more than 35 miles of trails, the park is resplendent in fall. Chloe Arrojado, AFAR Media, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resplendent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resplendent
Adjective
  • There are unexpected combinations, such as an 18th-century bust of a young girl mounted on a black marble column custom-made in a Parisian workshop; both are placed in front of a magnificent sketch.
    Nicolas Milon, Architectural Digest, 8 Mar. 2026
  • These hybrid magnolias display magnificent deep-pink to reddish-purple flowers late enough in spring that frosts seldom damage them.
    Steve Bender, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • They’re revived — buzzing, even; at the glorious point in the caffeinated beverage where everything is beautiful, nothing hurts and at least one of them feels like a creative genius.
    Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Premature pruning will remove flower buds, thereby depriving you of those glorious flowers.
    David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • While beautiful at first, once all of the Instagram pictures were taken, the open-air space started to get old for me.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Mar. 2026
  • Buchanan also loved meeting the big-name architects the group brought to Dallas — who in turn seemed to naturally gravitate to the down-to-earth Dallasite with the warm demeanor and beautiful smile.
    Trevor Bach, Dallas Morning News, 11 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Lobelia with its beautiful blue, Scaevola, tuberous begonias and many other gorgeous flowering plants appear this time of year.
    Becky Wern, Florida Times-Union, 7 Mar. 2026
  • Monday will also be gorgeous at 70 and sunny!
    Mary Ours, CBS News, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The classic circular design showcases preserved purple blooms with natural texture and a rustic yet elegant aesthetic that complements everything from French country to farmhouse decor.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2026
  • The tiny shimmering beads are quintessentially bridal; elegant, but not overdone.
    Alexandra Ditch, Vogue, 8 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • My lovely new neighbors have a son my daughter’s age.
    Heather Grossmann, Parents, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Orange juice, ginger ale, and pineapple juice make up a lovely treat for after the egg hunt.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Whether looking for florals, lace, beading, or ruffles, there are lots of stunning plus-size dresses for spring weddings.
    Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 8 Mar. 2026
  • This cool texture also doubles as stunning spring nail art.
    Audrey Noble, Vogue, 8 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The faux ring is reminiscent of a manicure recently sported by Kourtney Kardashian, suggesting this exquisite accent could be on the verge of having a moment.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 10 Mar. 2026
  • The culinary estate in Austria’s Burgenland is globally praised for its scenery, exquisite dinners and biodynamic wines.
    Laura Ness, Mercury News, 8 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resplendent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resplendent. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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