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 Hall’s writing is splendid and inventive. The Know, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2026 Both works, with aptly tangy orchestrations, got splendid performances, with particularly fine solos from principals Alexander Kerr (violin), Gregory Raden (clarinet) and James Romeo (piccolo). Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 27 Mar. 2026 The cherry blossoms are opening & putting on a splendid spring spectacle. Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026 The splendid Nezu Museum houses a collection of Asian art and antiquities ranging from paintings to samurai swords, with a traditional tea room and beautiful grounds to explore, too. Stephen Kelly, TheWeek, 26 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • And while several must-see redwood groves dot Northern California, in my opinion, driving the Avenue of the Giants is the easiest way to get up close and personal with these magnificent trees.
    Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2026
  • And Fitzgerald, coming off a magnificent six-interception freshman season, can play nickel skillfully if needed.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • It’s been wonderful over the five generations.
    Devon Ivie, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Bringing it back to America is wonderful.
    Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 21 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Irish rebounded from a uptight opening performance against England with a dazzling effort in their first test in Galway.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2026
  • The waters off the coast of Oia (and all of Santorini) are nothing short of spectacular, with dazzling shades of blue that can only truly be appreciated in person.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Guests can also socialize around the outdoor pool and pool bar, another glorious sunset viewing location.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026
  • But the sandweeshes begin with a golden and glorious taboon bread — or rather Abdullah’s fantastic interpretation, which is similar to focaccia.
    Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • His excellent size-speed combination, and aggressive downhill style creates disruption and turnover chances.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Another excellent option for sandy soil that Sing recommends is Russian sage (Salvia yangii).
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • At this year's Oscars, Dresher donned the glowier style of the primer, which has a subtle shimmery formula that gives the skin a naturally luminous look.
    Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026
  • The high-wattage crowd, dressed in luxe silk dresses and luminous pinstripe suits for the high-fashion event, included the likes of Martha Stewart, Allison Williams, Oscar Isaac, Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson — a mix of longtime admirers, friends and newer fans of the luxury fashion brand.
    Anna Tingley, Variety, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Toronto Blue Jays, meanwhile, are one of the worst teams, which almost no one could’ve predicted after last year’s epic World Series.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 19 Apr. 2026
  • Senior attackman Enzo Serio continued his epic season, too, scoring a hat trick as the Eagles remained perfect (8-0) with a convincing 8-2 romp of archrival Xaverian at home.
    Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Together, these two superb artists make much of Yarris constantly seeking the light, as Yarris searches for a way forward from the blackness of death row.
    Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Together, these two superb artists make much of Yarris constantly seeking the light, as Yarris searches for a way forward from the blackness of Death Row.
    Chris Jones, New York Daily News, 16 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.

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