Definition of splendidnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective splendid contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of splendid are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When can glorious be used instead of splendid?

The synonyms glorious and splendid are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

Where would gorgeous be a reasonable alternative to splendid?

The meanings of gorgeous and splendid largely overlap; however, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

In what contexts can resplendent take the place of splendid?

The words resplendent and splendid can be used in similar contexts, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When would sublime be a good substitute for splendid?

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

a vision of sublime beauty

When is superb a more appropriate choice than splendid?

The words superb and splendid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 splendid Our Planet is undoubtedly one of the most splendid projects Attenborough, among the most dedicated voices in the environmental fight, has done in his more than 70-year-long career. Tomris Laffly, Entertainment Weekly, 25 Dec. 2025 After some dynamic passing from Robertson and Bobby McMann, capped by a splendid finish from Roy, the Leafs’ new third line pushed the team to a deserved early lead. Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025 Alongside the splendid statue, the actual Black Panther struck the Wakanda Forever pose with guests. Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 9 Dec. 2025 In both appearance and taste, its fruit resembles that of a blueberry and offers a splendid snack for wildlife. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 6 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Then there’s the saltwater pool, all of the American mid-century and Danish modern furniture, and certainly the magnificent mountain and palm tree views.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Thiaw has been magnificent for Newcastle so far and this aberration should not overshadow that, but this was a game too far for the German, who surely requires a rest for the FA Cup tie with Bournemouth on Saturday.
    Chris Waugh, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This has been a wonderful season.
    Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Keep reading to discover all of the wonderful possibilities this tiny home unlocks, for just $9,800.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Other memorable moments included Teyana Taylor's emotional acceptance speech (and dazzling diamond thong), Jacob Elordi's mullet, and a cameo from the co-stars of Heated Rivalry.
    Emma Banks, InStyle, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui posted a video to X over the weekend, showing a dazzling view of auroras spreading like a tall blanket over the darkened Earth below.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The mountains look glorious, green, and bizarrely in-your-face.
    Dana Goodyear, New Yorker, 7 Jan. 2026
  • This week, Tyler, the Creator recapped his glorious year in a triumphant freestyle, Sabrina Carpenter gifted her fans a Man’s Best Friend bonus track as an early Christmas present, and Doechii teamed up with SZA for a subdued yet motivational anthem.
    Rolling Stone, Rolling Stone, 2 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • But the Red Sox destroyed and ended their relationship with their only true power hitter and proven winner for a player who, though an undeniably excellent addition, was here for 117 total games.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Transition metal fluorides are widely regarded as promising cathode materials because of their high theoretical voltages and excellent thermal stability.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The team suggests these blue monsters aren't galaxies at all, but are instead incredibly luminous dark stars that, because of their brightness, are being mistaken for entire galaxies with populations of stars packed into a region no wider than a few hundred light-years.
    Robert Lea, Space.com, 15 Jan. 2026
  • In addition to sparing readers a confrontation with the luminous now of the Notification Center, Cash also liberates the Flynns from the always-too-late pop-culture references that constrain many internet novels.
    Gideon Leek, The Atlantic, 13 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • College sweethearts William and Kate would later get engaged in Kenya in October 2010 and marry in an epic royal wedding in London in April 2011.
    Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Challenge winners selected from eligible entries in all 50 states will earn an exclusive invitation to attend the live final in Los Angeles on May 20, marking a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to witness the epic conclusion and be part of this milestone season.
    Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Dave Archer was there for the entirety of Matt Ryan’s Falcons career, serving as the superb analyst on team radio broadcasts and sharing countless conversations over the course of Ryan’s 14-year career in Atlanta.
    Ken Sugiura, AJC.com, 12 Jan. 2026
  • While imposing from the outside, their magnificent jewel-box innards are worth a browse—a superb, rather opulent retreat from the midday sun.
    Rosalyn Wikeley, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

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